Enugu State is set to host more than 50,000 participants for the 2026 Enugu Tech Festival, as the state government intensifies efforts to position the Coal City as a leading innovation hub in Nigeria and West Africa.
Speaking at a press briefing in Enugu on Thursday, the Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Prince Lawrence Ezeh, said preparations for the four-day event — scheduled for February 24 to 27 at the Enugu International Conference Centre — are progressing smoothly.
“I warmly welcome you once again and thank you for joining us for this second press briefing on the 2026 Enugu Tech Festival,” Ezeh said. “Your consistent engagement demonstrates the importance of this festival not only to Enugu State but to Nigeria’s broader technology ecosystem. The media has remained a critical partner in telling the story of our transformation, and we deeply appreciate your role in amplifying this vision.”
Infrastructure, Security Upgrades Underway
The commissioner disclosed that multiple committees covering logistics, programming, partnerships, security and media are working to deliver a world-class experience for both physical and virtual participants.
“Preparations are advancing smoothly and according to schedule,” he stated. “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. We have strengthened broadband capacity around the venue, enhanced cybersecurity systems, and integrated seamless digital registration platforms.”
‘Coal to Code: Energy in New Form’
This year’s theme, “Coal to Code: Energy in New Form,” reflects Enugu’s transformation from its historic coal-mining identity into a digitally driven economy.
“The theme for this year’s festival, ‘Coal to Code: Energy in New Form,’ reflects that transformation,” Ezeh explained. “Enugu was historically known as the Coal City. Today, under Governor Peter Mbah’s leadership, we are converting that legacy into digital energy — ideas, code, research and entrepreneurship that will power sustainable economic growth. Coal once powered industries; now innovation will power prosperity.”
He credited Governor Peter Mbah’s administration for driving deliberate reforms aimed at building a resilient, knowledge-based economy.
“The future of our state lies in innovation, enterprise and youth empowerment,” he said, noting that digitisation of government services, education reform, technology incubation and infrastructure modernisation remain key pillars of the governor’s agenda.
Building on 2025 Momentum
Ezeh said the 2025 edition of the festival marked a turning point for the state’s technology ecosystem.
“The 2025 Enugu Tech Festival was not merely an event; it was a declaration of intent. It signalled clearly that Enugu State has emerged as a formidable force within Nigeria’s technology and innovation ecosystem. Today, Enugu stands proudly as second only to Lagos in the country’s technology landscape. This progress is neither accidental nor cosmetic. It is the product of deliberate policy, strategic partnerships and the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Governor Peter Mbah.”
He revealed that since the 2025 edition, 10 new technology hubs have emerged in the state, including a dedicated Blockchain Hub and the Risevest Hub, alongside relocation of tech communities from other regions.
“These hubs are not symbolic spaces; they are active centres of product development, talent incubation and venture building,” he said.
67,000 to Receive Free Digital Training
A major highlight of the 2026 festival will be three days of free digital skills training for more than 67,000 participants.
“Trainers from the United Kingdom, including partners from 1Goal Analytics, will deliver the sessions, with participants receiving foreign certification on completion,” Ezeh announced. “This initiative underscores our commitment to inclusivity — ensuring that young people, students, civil servants and entrepreneurs acquire practical skills in data analytics, software development, artificial intelligence and digital project management.”
High-Profile Speakers Confirmed
The event will host a wide array of national and international technology leaders, policymakers and investors.
Among confirmed speakers are Governor Peter Mbah; Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani; Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande; Swedish Ambassador to Nigeria, Anna Westerholm; Chairman of Zinox Group, Leo Stan Ekeh; and Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Aminu Maida, among others.
The programme will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions and masterclasses on artificial intelligence, fintech, agritech, healthtech, renewable energy and cybersecurity.
Startup Showcase and Investment Forum
A Startup Showcase and Investment Forum will allow emerging entrepreneurs to pitch directly to investors and development partners.
“We are not simply hosting conversations; we are building pipelines for funding, mentorship and long-term business growth,” Ezeh said. “Selected startups will also gain access to post-festival incubation support and advisory services.”
He added that the state expects measurable outcomes including investment commitments, research collaborations and cross-border partnerships.
“Success will be measured not only by attendance but by tangible economic and social impact,” he noted.
‘Enugu Is Ready to Host the World’
As the countdown to February 24 begins, Ezeh expressed confidence in the state’s readiness.
“Governor Mbah’s broader economic transformation agenda is clear: diversify the economy, expand digital skills training, modernise infrastructure and attract global investment. This festival is a practical expression of that agenda. It demonstrates that Enugu is not waiting for the future; we are actively building it.
“As we approach 24 February, our message is confident and forward-looking. Enugu is ready to host the world. We look forward to four days of innovation, collaboration and purposeful dialogue that will help shape the digital future of our state and our nation.”
The 2026 Enugu Tech Festival is expected to further cement the state’s ambition of becoming a competitive innovation hub within Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital economy.
