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From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
Enugu is set to host more than 50,000 tech enthusiasts and stakeholders from across the global innovation ecosystem as the 2026 Enugu Technology Festival kicks off today, February 24, at the International Conference Centre (ICC).
Organisers said the festival, which will last till February 27, will draw startup founders, software developers, venture capitalists, corporate technology leaders, academics, policymakers, and students from Nigeria, other African countries and beyond, turning the Coal City into a major hub of innovation during the period.
Participants are also expected to benefit from free digital skills training sessions designed to equip young people with relevant competencies in today’s technology-driven economy.
Briefing journalists in Enugu, the Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Lawrence Ezeh, said preparations for the second edition of the festival were in top gear.
He explained that committees covering logistics, programming, partnerships, security, media, and protocol were working round the clock to ensure a seamless and impactful event.
“Technical installations are nearing completion, exhibition stands are being finalised, and our digital infrastructure has been upgraded to support large-scale participation, both physical and virtual,” Ezeh said.
He said broadband capacity around the venue has been strengthened, cyber security systems enhanced, and digital registration platforms integrated to guarantee a world-class experience for both onsite and virtual participants.
Ezeh noted that Governor Peter Mbah’s administration has prioritised innovation, enterprise, and youth empowerment, with digitisation of government services, education reform, technology incubation, and infrastructure modernisation forming the backbone of the state’s development strategy.
“Enugu was historically known as the Coal City. Today, under Governor Mbah’s leadership, we are transforming that legacy into digital energy — ideas, code, research, and entrepreneurship that will power sustainable economic growth,” he said.
The commissioner disclosed that the maiden edition of the festival significantly boosted the state’s innovation ecosystem, leading to the emergence of 10 new technology hubs, including a dedicated Blockchain Hub and the Risevest Hub.
He added that technology communities from other regions have since relocated to Enugu, strengthening collaboration among startups, investors, and government institutions.
“This progress is the result of deliberate policy direction, strategic partnerships, and visionary leadership. Enugu has positioned itself as a major force in Nigeria’s technology and innovation landscape,” Ezeh stated.
The festival will feature panel discussions, exhibitions, networking sessions, pitch competitions, and hands-on digital training, further reinforcing Enugu’s growing reputation as a destination for technology and innovation.
