Kingsley Udeh, the minister of innovation, science and technology, says ideas showcased at the Enugu Tech Festival will be assessed for commercial viability.

Mr Udeh spoke at the Enugu Tech Festival 2026, with the theme ‘Coal to Code: Energy in New Form’, at the Enugu International Conference Centre.

He said: “I am making a firm commitment that the Tech Fest will not simply end as an event.

“The products exhibited and ideas presented will be collated and rigorously evaluated for commercial viability.

“Those with strong potential will receive funding support through collaboration between the Federal Government, Enugu State and interested venture capital partners.”

He said the initiative aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to commercialise research outcomes and translate innovation into jobs.

Mr Udeh lauded Governor Peter Mbah and the commissioner for innovation, science and technology, Lawrence Ezeh, for promoting youth-focused technological advancement.

“I commend the Enugu State Government for embedding technology into governance, from digital processes to smart infrastructure and educational investments.

“This deliberate focus on science and innovation is positioning the state as a leading hub in Nigeria’s knowledge economy,” Mr Udeh said.

According to him, the festival connects innovators, start-ups, researchers, industry leaders and policymakers to solutions that address pressing challenges.

He said Nigeria must shift from being a net importer of technology to becoming a producer, exporter and global innovation stakeholder.

“What I witnessed at this Tech Fest is clear evidence that this transition is already underway.

“I saw solutions addressing personal and national socio-economic challenges across sectors.

“Our young people are building solutions in security, governance, business, artificial intelligence and the creative economy.

“Science, technology and innovation are practical tools for livelihood, economic growth and national development.

“The energy and ingenuity displayed reaffirm my confidence that Nigeria’s future will be shaped by innovators creating real value,” Mr Udeh said.

He noted that technological innovation is becoming part of Nigeria’s culture, stressing that Nigerians are creators, not merely users.

“What I saw at this Tech Fest proves that Nigerian talent is ready to compete globally,” he added. 

(NAN)