Ugo Ferdinand Ukwueze, the Chairman of Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area in Enugu State, emphasized the strong alignment of the Enugu Tech Festival with the innovation and digital technology policies promoted by President Bola Tinubu. According to Ukwueze, the festival serves as a vital platform for fostering idea exchange, enhancing skills, and motivating young individuals to adopt innovation as a key component for securing their future in a competitive global environment.
This year's festival was the second edition and took place from February 24 to 27 at the International Conference Centre in Enugu. Ukwueze highlighted that the event underscores the significance of technology as a catalyst for economic advancement, job creation, and enhancing global competitiveness.
Ukwueze, who is also the deputy chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Enugu State Chapter, expressed these sentiments in a Facebook post made on February 27. He noted that the festival signals a shift towards greater reliance on technology as an essential instrument for economic progress.
He remarked, “This initiative reflects the national objective spearheaded by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose administration is firmly positioning innovation and digital technology at the forefront of Nigeria’s economic evolution.”
He further detailed the government's initiatives aimed at fostering a competitive digital economy, including the 3 Million Technical Talent Programme designed to equip countless young Nigerians with essential tech skills.
Ukwueze's comments came after he participated in the festival, which attracted around 53,000 visitors. Dignitaries in attendance on the fourth day included Kingsley Udeh, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, and Chidiebere Onyia, the Secretary to the Enugu State Government.
Ukwueze lauded the festival as a significant venue for “sharing ideas, enhancing skills, and inspiring the youth towards innovation.”
He remarked on the visionary leadership of Governor Peter Mbah, stating that he has laid the groundwork for technological advancement in Enugu, evidenced by investments in smart schools and a Command and Control Centre, along with various programs aimed at developing youth capacities.
Ukwueze stated, "Governor Mbah’s vision is positioning Enugu as an emerging hub for innovation and modern business practices.” He expressed appreciation for the festival's ability to empower individuals with the necessary knowledge and tools to succeed in a fast-evolving digital landscape, noting that numerous attendees hailed from Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area.
During the opening of the festival on February 24, Governor Mbah affirmed that technology and innovation are central to Enugu’s transformative plans. He encouraged the youth to seize the abundant opportunities presented by advancements in these fields.
Mbah conveyed, “The world has transcended a pivotal moment; we are experiencing a technological renaissance that is reshaping economic landscapes.” He reiterated that technology has moved beyond being a mere support system to become the foundational framework surrounding daily life.
He elaborated, “In just thirty years, startups birthed in garages have evolved into some of the most valuable companies in history, fundamentally altering commerce, communication, and even personal relations.”
He concluded, “Our strategic choice here in Enugu is clear: we will not be bystanders in this technological revolution, but active contributors and innovators.”
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