
By Ameh Gabriel
In a significant milestone for Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda, the Federal Government, in collaboration with IHS Nigeria, has recommissioned the fully renovated Kano Digital Industrial Park — a strategic hub for technology, innovation, and youth empowerment in Northern Nigeria.
The facility, which was vandalized during the August 2024 protests, has been restored to international standards through a robust public-private partnership between the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and IHS Nigeria.
At the commissioning ceremony held on Wednesday, July 2, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to inclusive digital growth, job creation, and building an enabling ecosystem for young innovators across the country.
High-Level Attendance and Renewed Commitments
The event drew a distinguished lineup of stakeholders, including:
Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, Deputy Governor of Kano State (representing Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf)
Ambassador Ahmed Umar OON, Jarman Kano (representing the Emir of Kano)
Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC)
Ayodele Olawande, Minister of State for Youth Development
Senior executives from IHS Nigeria and other private sector leaders.
Dr. Maida described the recommissioning as a “pivotal moment” in Nigeria’s digital evolution, stating:
“This park will be a launchpad for innovation, digital skills development, and entrepreneurship across Northern Nigeria. The NCC remains committed to ensuring that no one is left behind in this digital revolution.”
A Visionary Partnership for Progress
Speaking on behalf of Governor Abba Yusuf, Deputy Governor Gwarzo hailed the project as a catalyst for Northern Nigeria’s digital transformation:
“This is not just the reopening of a building; it’s the relaunch of a bold vision. We deeply appreciate IHS Nigeria for their timely support and commitment to our shared goal of digital inclusion.”
Echoing the same sentiment, Mr. Kazeem Oladepo, Chief Operating Officer of IHS Nigeria, stated:
“Our decision to fund the restoration of the Kano Digital Park is rooted in our belief in the power of technology to transform lives. This partnership with the Ministry showcases what’s possible when the public and private sectors work together with purpose.”
He added that IHS Nigeria is also backing the Ilorin Innovation Hub, West Africa’s largest innovation center, and is proud to contribute to the Federal Government’s 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program.
Infrastructure to Power the Future
The upgraded Kano Digital Industrial Park now features:
Modern training laboratories
High-speed internet and reliable power infrastructure
Enhanced digital classrooms and collaborative workspaces
Reinstalled digital equipment to support thousands of learners and startups
Dr. Tijani emphasized the deeper significance of the initiative:

“This facility is more than infrastructure. It is a symbol of resilience and opportunity. Through partnerships like this, we are laying the foundation for a future where every Nigerian youth has access to world-class digital education and tools to succeed.”
Driving Innovation, Creating Jobs
The recommissioned park is set to play a critical role in Nigeria’s digital future by:
Incubating tech startups and innovators
Providing digital and entrepreneurial training
Supporting job creation and local economic development
With the restoration of the Kano Digital Industrial Park, the Federal Government and IHS Nigeria have not only rebuilt a facility but reignited a movement to empower youth, bridge the digital divide, and drive sustainable development through technology.