Enugu Tech Festival to Drive Innovation and Investment

The Enugu State Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology has announced plans to host the inaugural Enugu Tech Festival (ETF). Scheduled to take place from May 6 to May 9, 2025, at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, this landmark event aims to accelerate technological advancement and establish the state as a leading innovation hub in West Africa.

With the theme “Coal to Code,” the festival symbolizes Enugu’s transformation from a coal-dependent economy to a thriving technology-driven ecosystem.

What to Expect at the Enugu Tech Festival

The Enugu Tech Festival is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology and the state’s tech and startup ecosystem. It seeks to foster innovation, support emerging startups, and inspire tech professionals across various fields.

Key Highlights of the Enugu Tech Festival

• Daily Sessions: The event will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

• Tech Rallies: Kicking off with a city-wide tech rally on May 6, culminating at the International Conference Centre by 3 p.m.

• Conferences & Panel Discussions: Sessions on innovation, startup funding, and West Africa Stargate (WASGate), a key initiative to boost investment.

• Networking Opportunities: Founders, investors, and tech enthusiasts will engage in meaningful collaborations.

• Exhibitions: A showcase of groundbreaking tech innovations from across Nigeria and beyond.

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Enugu Tech Festival to Propel State’s Digital Transformation

Enugu, historically recognized for its coal mining industry, is now a rising star in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem. Currently ranked among the top five Nigerian states for tech innovation, Enugu boasts over 100 active startups and thousands of tech professionals. The Enugu Tech Festival will solidify its place as a major player in Africa’s digital economy.

According to Dr. Lawrence Ezeh, Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, the festival is not just about discussions—it’s about action.

Strategic Goals of the Enugu Tech Festival

• Establish Enugu as a leading tech hub in West Africa.

• Attract investors through WASGate, a $1.7 million angel investment fund.

• Create thousands of job opportunities for tech professionals and students.

• Train 5,000 youth in tech-related jobs over the next year.

• Increase tech-driven employment by 50% annually.

Final Day: A Grand Celebration of Innovation

The Tech Festival will conclude on May 9 with in-depth discussions on blockchain, proptech, and hardware innovations. The day will also feature:

• Tech Exhibitions showcasing the latest advancements in the region.

• An Award Ceremony recognizing exceptional contributions to the industry.

• A Gala Night bringing together top industry leaders, policymakers, and investors.

With the “Coal to Code” vision, Enugu is positioning itself as a Silicon Valley-like innovation hub in West Africa. The Tech Festival will serve as a catalyst for technological growth, attracting global partnerships and fostering a new era of economic transformation.