Iliyasu Abdullahi Bah
In a landmark move to strengthen Nigeria’s position as a continental technology hub, the Federal Government has designated Katsina State as one of ten states selected to host a $10 billion National Innovation Hub—a flagship initiative aimed at accelerating digital transformation and expanding broadband connectivity nationwide.
The announcement was made on Monday by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, during a high-level meeting with Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, at the minister’s office in Abuja.
Dr. Tijani described the Innovation Hub as one of the central pillars of the national digital economy strategy, emphasizing that it would be “one of the most advanced technology ecosystems ever developed in Nigeria.” Construction is expected to begin before the end of 2026, signaling a major leap toward making Nigeria a regional leader in technological innovation.
“Katsina is one of Nigeria’s most promising innovation states,” the Minister stated. “With Governor Radda’s proactive leadership, this project will accelerate digital growth in the Northern region and unlock new opportunities for young innovators and entrepreneurs.”
The Minister also revealed that Katsina will benefit from five new satellite-based internet installations under the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), designed to expand broadband access in underserved and rural communities. The initiative addresses the long-standing digital divide and enhances connectivity in educational and public institutions across the state.
In addition, the Federal Government plans to scale up its Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme in Katsina, enabling participants to utilize the new Innovation Hub as their primary operational base—creating a seamless environment for digital learning, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Governor Radda welcomed the development, describing it as a strong endorsement of his administration’s digital transformation agenda. He reiterated Katsina’s full commitment to collaborating with the Federal Government to deepen ICT penetration and foster a thriving innovation culture.
“ICT remains one of our top governance priorities,” Governor Radda said. “We have already established a Directorate of ICT, conducted extensive workforce training, reduced bureaucratic processes, and implemented a Treasury Single Account that is now 85 percent operational.”
The Governor also highlighted several forward-looking measures taken by the state to encourage technology investment, including offering free Right of Way (RoW) to broadband companies. This policy has already improved internet connectivity in public institutions such as the Government House, schools, hospitals, and ICT centers.
Governor Radda further requested that one of the newly approved satellite internet installations be connected to the state’s model schools, a proposal that was immediately approved by the Minister.
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