IHS Nigeria, a subsidiary of IHS Towers, in partnership with the Kwara State Government, has launched incubation and acceleration programs at the newly established Ilorin Innovation Hub. The initiative aims to foster technological innovation, empower startups, and stimulate economic growth in Nigeria.
The hub, which spans 13,000 square meters and accommodates over 1,000 users, is one of the largest technology centers in West Africa. Ahead of its official commissioning later this year, IHS Nigeria is collaborating with Co-Creation Hub (CcHub) and Future Africa to implement a range of programs that will equip entrepreneurs and businesses with critical digital skills, funding opportunities, and mentorship.
Speaking at the launch, IHS Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer, Mohamad Darwish, highlighted the company’s commitment to digital transformation:
“This marks a significant milestone in our efforts to support innovation, entrepreneurship, and wealth creation in Nigeria. We believe this hub will serve as a platform for brilliant minds to access the resources needed to transform ideas into successful businesses, contributing to the socio-economic growth of Kwara State and the nation at large.”
The Ilorin Innovation Hub will offer programs such as the Advanced Technical Leadership Training, Corporate Innovation and Accelerator Programme, and the Ecosystem Development and Mentorship Initiative. These initiatives, led by Future Africa and CcHub, will focus on emerging sectors including artificial intelligence, agricultural technology, and energy innovation.
With the potential to create over 10,000 direct and indirect jobs, the hub aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and supports Nigeria’s broader digital economy strategy. It also complements IHS Nigeria’s collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy on the Three Million Technical Talent initiative, aimed at equipping Nigerians with essential digital skills.
Darwish expressed optimism that the hub would play a pivotal role in positioning Nigeria as a global technology leader:
“We are confident that this facility will nurture a new wave of innovative enterprises, demonstrating the strength and resilience of Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.”
As a key driver of Kwara State’s digital transformation, the Ilorin Innovation Hub is poised to become a cornerstone for entrepreneurship and technological advancement, providing a dynamic environment for innovators to thrive.