Kazeem Yahaya
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has restated the commitment of his administration to nurturing creativity, fostering entrepreneurship, and providing a conducive environment for youths to thrive in the digital space so as to make the state a beacon of innovation and technology advancement in the country.
Governor Oyebanji who stated this in Ado Ekiti while inaugurating the first innovation hub in the state, tagged “Ekiti Startup Garage”, said it is part of his administration’s vision to place the state at the forefront of digital transformation, economic development and prosperity.
Highlighting the importance of the startup garage as more than just a physical space, the Governor said it is a dynamic and comprehensive digital ecosystem where ideas will be born, nurtured and transformed into impactful solutions that can address local and global challenges.
The Governor explained that the hub would also serve as a crucible for innovation, bringing together techpreneurs, researchers, developers and investors to collaborate and create ground breaking solutions as well as serve as economic growth and job creation by providing access to state-of-the-art facilities, mentorship and funding opportunities.
While commending the Ministry of Innovation,
Technology and Digital Economy for its unwavering commitment and relentless efforts in bringing the project into fruition, the Governor assured the youths that his administration is determined to turn their innovative ideas, bubbling energy and drive into viable business that will stimulate the economy, attract investments, create jobs and enhance the overall prosperity of the state.
” Today, we celebrate not just the opening of a facility, but the realization of a vision- one that places Ekiti State at the forefront of digital transformation, economic development and prosperity. This Innovation Hub is a testament to our commitment to nurturing creativity, fostering entrepreneurship and providing a conducive environment for our youths to thrive in the digital space.
Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Digital Economy, Mr Seun Fakuade appreciated the Governor for his unwavering commitment to youth development and establishing the state as a major talent hub for innovation ecosystem
The Commissioner who disclosed the determination of the Governor to making Ekiti the innovative capital of the country, said the Governor has approved the first phase of Innovation Enterprise Support Fund to empower talented youths in the state to develop their ideas.
A major highlight of the inauguration ceremony was a display of innovative projects undertaken by some young scientists. Each of them took some minutes to explain the ideas behind their innovations to the Governor.
Also at the event were Chairman, House Committee on Youth and Sport Development, Hon Idowu Odebunmi; Secretary to the State Government, Dr (Mrs) Habibat Adubiaro; Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi; members of the State Executive Council, among others.
