Kano State is unveiling a raft of technology-driven initiatives, with smart agriculture at the heart of efforts to boost food security, accelerate digital transformation and empower young people across Nigeria’s most populous state.
The development is emerging from a meeting between Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, and Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim Kofar Mata, Kano State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, where state officials outlined plans to embed innovation into education, agriculture and enterprise.
Kano adopting smart agriculture to improve productivity
Kano is adopting smart agriculture techniques that deploy data, sensors and innovative tools to improve agricultural productivity and strengthen food security. Officials say the initiative will enable farmers to optimise resources, reduce waste and improve yields, while positioning agriculture as a viable pathway for job creation and rural economic growth.
“Kano, our nation’s most populous state and a longstanding economic and cultural powerhouse, has embarked on an ambitious innovation-driven transformation,” Nnaji says, while commending the state’s decision to place agriculture at the centre of its technology roadmap.
Building a pipeline of digital talent
Beyond agriculture, Kano is rolling out a mass digital literacy programme designed to equip youths and artisans with essential digital skills for today’s economy. The state is upgrading a technical school into a modern ICT institute to create a pipeline of local tech talent, while converting 44 schools into craft and technical colleges to strengthen vocational and enterprise education.
Officials say the combined investments in education and skills development will not only raise a generation of tech-savvy Nigerians but also reduce unemployment and expand entrepreneurship in the state.
Federal alignment and support
Nnaji reiterates the Federal Ministry’s role in coordinating Nigeria’s science, technology and innovation ecosystem, citing national programmes already benefiting Kano. These include the RCET-led solar dryer project for farmers, and Junior Engineers, Technicians and Scientists (JETS), which fosters STEM excellence among students.
He also highlights the Sustainable Energy Access Programme (SEAP), driven in partnership with the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) and the private sector.
“SEAP has the potential to radically expand clean, decentralised energy access across the state. This means powering schools, health centres, innovation hubs and small businesses — fuelling inclusive development and accelerating rural industrialisation,” the Minister says.
According to Nnaji, such partnerships demonstrate a shared commitment by state and federal governments to create jobs, expand skills, increase energy access and build an inclusive, technology-driven economy.
With its smart agriculture strategy and digital skills agenda, Kano says it is signalling its intent to leverage innovation not just for economic growth, but also for food security and social inclusion, as Africa’s largest sub-national population seeks to unlock international potential.
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