To advance technology-driven development and strengthen innovation pathways for young people in the Niger Delta, the Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) participated in the 2025 Abia Technology and Innovation Summit, held from December 10–12, 2025, at the International Conference Center (ICC) in Umuahia, Abia State.
Organized by the Abia State Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, the annual summit convened government leaders, private sector actors, development partners, academia, and emerging innovators. The 2025 theme, “Abia: Africa’s Emerging Innovation Powerhouse,” highlighted the state’s commitment to building a vibrant, future-ready innovation ecosystem.
Advancing Strategic Partnerships to Drive Innovation
Representing PIND Foundation’s Executive Director, Mr. Sam Ogbemi Daibo, the organization’s Advocacy Manager, Mr. Chuks Ofulue, delivered a keynote address titled “The Role of International Partnerships in Positioning Abia as Africa’s Innovation Powerhouse.”
In his remarks, he emphasized the necessity of collaboration in building sustainable innovation ecosystems, stating that shared investments between government, private sector, and development partners are essential to fostering resilient, opportunity-rich environments for young people and technology-driven enterprises.
Showcasing Youth Employment Expertise in Panel Discussions
PIND’s Youth Employment Pathways (YEP) Manager, Mr. Patrick Ekpe, contributed to a panel discussion titled, “The Role of Talent and Skill Development in Positioning Abia as Africa’s Emerging Innovation Powerhouse.” He highlighted practical insights from PIND’s youth-focused programming, particularly the YEP model, which has equipped thousands of young people with ICT, enterprise, and technical skills tailored to labour market demand.
The panel featured experts from the 3 Million Technical Talent Programme (3MTT), the Abia State Skill Acquisition Directorate, and other leading organizations, collectively examining how digital skills, vocational training, and industry partnerships can accelerate Abia’s innovation agenda.
Youth Innovators and Beneficiaries Engage Across Summit Activities
Several PIND-supported beneficiaries and implementing partners—including Hanson Johnson, CEO of Start Innovation Hub; Daniel Chinagozi, CEO of IGHUB; and YEP beneficiary Chiemela Anosike—actively participated in the Summit through exhibitions, start-up challenge pitches, and interactive discussions.
Their involvement demonstrated the growing impact of PIND’s investment in youth entrepreneurship and market-relevant skills development, showcasing how young innovators are applying practical training to real-world solutions.
Strengthening Partnerships for Inclusive Innovation in Abia State
Beyond the speaking engagements, PIND leveraged the summit as a strategic platform to deepen collaboration with government agencies, tech hubs, venture capital networks, and training institutions. These engagements advanced discussions on:
- Expanding market-driven TVET and digital skills programs
- Enhancing innovation and entrepreneurship support systems
- Creating stronger job and enterprise linkages for youth in Abia
- Strengthening cross-sector partnerships that promote inclusive economic development
Advancing an Innovation-Driven Future for the Niger Delta
PIND’s participation at the 2025 Abia Technology & Innovation Summit reinforces its commitment to expanding youth opportunities, strengthening local institutions, and supporting technology as a driver of sustainable economic growth.
By promoting collaboration, elevating youth voices, and sharing effective models like YEP, PIND continues to contribute to a future where the Niger Delta’s young people can thrive as creators, innovators, and leaders in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
