The 2025 Enugu Tech Festival, organized by the Enugu State Government, kicked off on Wednesday, marking what is being hailed as the largest technology conference ever held in Nigeria.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, described the festival as a pivotal moment for the nation’s digital economy. He highlighted that the event, which attracted thousands of youth from across Nigeria, is a major step forward in Nigeria’s goal to build a thriving digital ecosystem.
Tijani commended Enugu State, under the leadership of Governor Peter Mbah, for its progress, noting that the state has transitioned from policy to action, taking the lead in driving the country’s tech revolution.
“The Coal to Code theme of this festival aligns perfectly with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy’s agenda,” Tijani explained. “We’ve recognized that the future of Nigeria’s digital economy will not just be shaped in Abuja; it will be co-created in every state. Enugu is showing us exactly how it’s done.”
Reflecting on his extensive experience in the tech sector—having founded Nigeria’s first technology hub—Tijani expressed his admiration for the scale of the event: “I have never attended a tech conference this large in Nigeria. This is a historic moment, and Enugu is leading the way. Two years ago, no one could have imagined this level of momentum, but today, Enugu is not just dreaming—it’s building.”
In his address, Governor Peter Mbah emphasized the role of technology in transforming various sectors, including security, land administration, and education. He stressed that the festival is part of his administration’s broader strategy to empower the youth of Enugu, positioning them as wealth creators and the highly skilled workforce of the future.
Mbah urged the youth to harness the power of technology and innovation, recognizing the immense potential to create platforms that can generate significant economic opportunities. “In today’s world, people sit with great ideas and create platforms where they can benefit. That’s the era we are entering,” he said.
The Enugu Tech Festival represents a significant milestone for both the state and Nigeria as a whole, offering a glimpse into the future of the country’s digital economy.