By Abdullahi Yusuf
The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has officially commissioned the much-anticipated Digital Industrial Park (DIP) in Kano, a transformative project designed to propel Nigeria’s digital economy from the grassroots.
A statement signed by the Kano State Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs,Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Wayya, said the commissioning ceremony took place at the park’s premises, marking a significant milestone in the Federal Government’s digital inclusion strategy.
“Although the facility was initially completed in 2024, it was tragically vandalized during the nationwide protest of August 1, 2024. Thanks to the timely intervention of IHS Towers, the structure has now been fully restored and is set to commence operations, symbolizing resilience and renewed progress,”Comrade Wayya said.
He said the Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, who represented Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf at the occasion, conveyed the State Government’s profound appreciation to the Minister for his commitment and dedication to Kano, as well as his foresight in promoting public-private partnerships.
“Dr. Bosun Tijani’s unwavering love for Kano and his innovative decision to involve private sector players, like IHS Towers, in supporting government-led digital projects, shows that Nigeria’s digital future is in safe hands.
“This park is not just a facility; it is a symbol of opportunity, hope, and the digital awakening of Northern Nigeria,” he said.
In his remarks Mr. Kazeem Oladepo, who represented IHS Towers, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Kano State in the areas of IT infrastructure and digitalization.
“We are ready to deepen our collaboration with the state government to ensure inclusive digital growth and innovation,” Oladepo assured.
The Commissioner said Dr.Tijjani was visibly delighted by the turnout and the successful realization of the project, and disclosed that Kano State recorded the highest number of applicants for the Federal Government’s digital skill acquisition programme, 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT).
This, the minister said, was a clear indicator of the youth’s readiness to embrace technology and innovation.
“Kano is ripe for digital transformation.The energy, talent, and hunger for opportunity here are unmatched.This project is for the people of Kano and Nigeria at large. I thank the Kano State Government for the immense support in actualizing this dream,” he said.
As a gesture of appreciation and cultural recognition, the Deputy Governor, on behalf of the government and people of Kano State, decorated Dr. Tijani with a traditional sword and hat, conferring on him the honorary title of “Sarkin Yakin Digitization”, meaning “Grand Commander of Digitization” in recognition of his pioneering role in advancing digital development in Kano and beyond.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by top government officials, traditional leaders, industry stakeholders, and members of the press.
The event underscored the growing synergy between the Federal Government, state governments, and the private sector in unlocking Nigeria’s digital potential.
With the Digital Industrial Park now fully operational, stakeholders anticipate a surge in tech-driven economic activity, job creation, innovation hubs, and capacity-building initiatives across Kano State and the broader northern region, Comrade Wayya added.