Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has unveiled ambitious plans to site Innovation Hubs in all 16 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state.
The plan follows the launch of the Innovation Hub in Ado-Ekiti, according to the state government. The disclosure was made during a visit to the Governor’s Office in Ado Ekiti, by Dr. William Tsuma, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Country Senior Innovation Adviser, who expressed keen interest in supporting Ekiti’s innovation initiatives and spreading them throughout Nigeria.
Governor Oyebanji says he plans to establish Innovation Hubs in all 16 local government areas, following the launch of its first earlier this month, with the goal of fostering economic growth and positioning Ekiti as a key player in Nigeria’s economy.
The Governor underscores the importance of the Ekiti Knowledge Zone in driving innovation and technology, with a focus on enhancing employability and addressing educational gaps.
The replication of these Hubs, Oyebanji says, aims to bring together a diverse range of stakeholders, including entrepreneurs, researchers, developers, and investors, providing them with state-of-the-art infrastructure, mentorship opportunities, funding prospects, and a platform to transform ideas into successful enterprises.
The hubs are designed to stimulate local economic development, attract investments, create job opportunities, and enhance the overall prosperity of Ekiti State, according to the Governor.
The UNDP’s Dr Tsuma commended the Ekiti State Governor for his commitment to innovation and digital economy, praising the state’s progress in sectors such as agriculture, education, arts, and digital initiatives.
According to Dr. Tsuma, the recent launch of the Innovation Hub in Ado-Ekiti represents a significant milestone in Ekiti’s development journey.
Dr. Tsuma stresses the importance of leveraging Ekiti’s expertise and innovation to benefit other states and regions, while also applauding Governor Oyebanji for creating an environment that empowers youth through practical experiences in the public sector, thereby nurturing a new generation of well-equipped young professionals.
Mr. Seun Fakuade, Ekiti State Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Digital Economy also emphasises the state’s dedication to collaborating with UNDP to promote development through innovation, with a focus on empowering youth.
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