Kano State Government, under the visionary leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, has reaffirmed its firm commitment to accelerating digital transformation and ensuring that the State fully harnesses the vast opportunities of a technology-driven world.
Declaring the Governor’s position at the opening ceremony of the National Convention of the Innovation Support Network (ISN), the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, who represented the Governor, stated that “Kano State has developed a comprehensive Digital Economy Policy alongside a robust Digitalisation and E-Governance Framework designed to guide the orderly growth of the digital ecosystem.”
Waiya explained that these policy instruments align public investment, private sector collaboration, and regulatory standards in a manner that protects citizens, encourages innovation, and creates a predictable environment for technology-driven enterprises to thrive.
The Commissioner added that, to coordinate these efforts, the State Government established the Kano State Information Technology Development Agency (KASITDA) as the apex institution responsible for implementing the State’s digital vision.
According to him, “KASITDA’s Strategic Roadmap (2025–2030) outlines clear priorities in digital skills development, infrastructure expansion, e-government growth, data governance, and regulatory strengthening.”
Waiya emphasised that the roadmap provides the solid foundation needed to build a competitive and vibrant innovation ecosystem.
“We appreciate the Innovation Support Network for selecting Kano long renowned for commerce, craftsmanship, and creativity as the host of this prestigious national gathering,” Waiya declared.
The Commissioner noted that the theme of the convention strongly aligns with the vision and strategic priorities of the present administration.
He stressed that innovation hubs are not just physical structures but dynamic ecosystems where ideas are refined, partnerships established, and where talent meets capital to create homegrown solutions with national and global relevance.
“In Kano State, we remain committed to strengthening the institutional and policy foundations that enable these engines of transformation to operate effectively, sustainably, and inclusively,” he affirmed.
Waiya further highlighted that the present administration has anchored its digital transformation journey on strong policy direction and strict adherence to the rule of law.
He reiterated that the State’s digital policies and frameworks are intended to support orderly growth, citizen protection, and continuous innovation.
Reflecting on the administration’s broader development agenda, the Commissioner noted that the government has undertaken far-reaching reforms to advance governance and promote inclusive socio-economic development.
These include opening new economic corridors through strategic infrastructure, modernizing education to prepare young people for a knowledge-driven future, expanding healthcare access, and reforming agriculture through data systems, mechanization, and climate-smart innovations.
“Across all these sectors, technology remains a central pillar for efficiency, transparency, and impact,” he said.
Waiya also informed participants that Kano State is currently undergoing one of its most ambitious transformations in the area of technology and innovation.
He disclosed that the State’s digital policies, human capital programs, and ecosystem development initiatives are positioning Kano as an emerging hub for startups, innovators, and digital talent across Northern Nigeria.
In the creative economy sector, the Commissioner reaffirmed the Governor’s commitment to sustaining Kano’s pride of place as the cultural heartbeat of Northern Nigeria.
“We are investing in our filmmakers, designers, musicians, digital creators, and artisans through targeted capacity-building programmes and strategic partnerships that link them to global creative markets,” he stressed.
He added that the administration firmly believes that Kano’s vibrant creative youth remain an invaluable asset with growing national and international relevance.
“The Kano State Government will continue to open its doors for collaboration, strengthen institutional networks, and inspire innovative ideas capable of transforming our economy,” Waiya assured.
The Commissioner concluded by reaffirming the government’s unwavering commitment to working closely with ISN, the private sector, development partners, academia, and all stakeholders dedicated to building a digital future that promotes prosperity for all.
“Our administration will remain open, collaborative, and resolute in ensuring that Kano continues to provide an enabling environment for innovation to flourish,” he said.
Credit: Sani Abba Yola
