Iliyasu Abdullahi Bah
In a landmark decision for Nigeria’s technological development, the Federal Government has designated Katsina State as one of ten states nationwide that will host a cutting edge $10 billion Innovation Hub, designed to accelerate digital transformation and expand broadband connectivity across the country.
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 ministers office in Abuja.
Dr. Tijani described the Innovation Hub as one of the flagship projects under the national digital economy strategy, emphasizing that the facility would be “one of the best designed” in Nigeria. Construction is scheduled to commence before the end of 2026, marking a significant milestone in the countrys efforts to establish itself as a regional technology leader.
“Katsina is one of Nigeria most promising innovation states,” the Minister stated. “With the support of Governor Radda, we are confident this project will accelerate digital growth in the Northern region and create new opportunities for young innovators and entrepreneurs.”
In a related development, the Minister announced that Katsina would also benefit from five new satellite based internet installations under the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF). These sites are specifically targeted at improving broadband access in underserved and rural communities, addressing a critical gap in the state digital infrastructure.
Additionally, Dr. Tijani revealed plans to scale up the Federal Government’s Three Million Technical Talent 3MTT programme in Katsina. Participants in this ambitious capacity building initiative will eventually utilize the new Innovation Hub as their primary operational base, creating a seamless ecosystem for skills development and technological innovation.
Governor Radda welcom the announcements, describing them as a major boost to his administration comprehensive digital reform agenda. He reiterated Katsina full commitment to partnering with the Federal Government to deepen ICT penetration and foster a culture of innovation.
“ICT is one of our top governance priorities,” Governor Radda affirmed. “We have already established a Directorate of ICT, conducted extensive workforce training, significantly reduced bureaucratic paperwork, and implemented a Treasury Single Account that is currently 85 percent operational.”
The Governor highlighted several proactive measures taken by the state government to create an enabling environment for digital growth, including the provision of free Right of Way (RoW) to broadband investors. This policy has already facilitated improved internet connectivity at key public institutions such as the Government House, hospitals, schools, and ICT centers.
Governor Radda specifically requested that one of the five new satellite internet sites be connected to the state model schools a proposal that received immediate approval from the Minister.