The Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has announced a ₦50 million donation to support the establishment of a Technology Innovation Hub at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria. The pledge was made on Saturday during the university’s 45th convocation ceremony, underscoring the governor’s commitment to education, technology and youth empowerment.
The announcement, contained in a statement signed by Sunusi Tofa, Director General of Media and Publicity, Government House, Kano, detailed that the contribution was made in collaboration with the Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Foundation and AMA Pharmaceuticals Limited. The partnership aims to reinforce research capacity, innovation and socio-economic inclusion among students and young entrepreneurs.
Addressing the gathering at the ceremony, Governor Yusuf said the donation “aligns with his administration’s people-centred agenda, which prioritises education, skills acquisition and the empowerment of young people and women.” He emphasised that the government’s support for the hub reflects a broader vision to integrate academic excellence with practical skills development and leadership training.
Highlighting the importance of collaboration, Governor Yusuf described the initiative as part of the state’s commitment to forging strategic partnerships with reputable institutions that “promote human capital development and sustainable growth.” He praised Alhaji Musa Bello for his leadership in driving the hub’s establishment and commended the role of the Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Foundation and AMA Pharmaceuticals in bringing the project to fruition.
“This is a groundbreaking initiative that will enhance research, innovation and entrepreneurship among students,” Yusuf said, stressing that such ventures are critical to equipping Nigeria’s youth with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.
The governor also reaffirmed the state government’s readiness to continue engaging with development partners, foundations and civil society organisations to advance inclusive development and improve the welfare of citizens. His remarks placed a particular emphasis on leveraging collaborative frameworks to expand opportunities for education and enterprise across the region.
The convocation ceremony also served as a platform to honour global leadership and academic excellence, featuring the award of an honorary Doctor of Science degree to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, former Minister of Finance and Director-General of the World Trade Organization. The accolade recognised her contributions to national and international development, public service and transformative leadership.
