Niger State Governor-elect, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has pledged to harness opportunities in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector to drive small business growth and economic development across the state.
Bago made the commitment at the unveiling of Labspace, a newly established innovation and tech hub in Minna. He said the incoming administration will prioritize ICT as a catalyst for youth empowerment, job creation, and business expansion.
"Private enterprise, with government support, is vital for regional economic development. We're creating an ecosystem where startups can thrive," he said.
Citing the ICT sector's contribution of ₦21.15 trillion to Nigeria's GDP in 2022, Bago said his government is committed to addressing barriers confronting tech-driven businesses in the region.
"We're addressing the infrastructural gaps, working on business-friendly regulations, and will actively attract investors to strengthen Niger's startup economy," he added.
Founder of Labspace, Mr. Abdulkadir Lapai, described the hub as a platform to unite tech talent across Niger State, promote innovation, and encourage women's participation in ICT.
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"We want to create a community where ideas, skills, and resources converge to spark innovation and digital transformation," Lapai said.
A key highlight of the launch was a panel discussion titled "The Future of Tech in Northern Nigeria," where speakers pointed to major challenges stalling startup growth in the region — including poor access to funding, limited adoption of technology by SMEs, and negative perceptions around startup viability.
Lapai noted that Labspace will host ideation workshops, community festivals, virtual trainings, and social media-based programs to foster collaboration and accelerate startup growth.
"Our focus is on building a support system for founders, while tracking startup impact and helping them scale," he said.
Startups showcased at the event included:
- Diary of Hackers – a cybersecurity community enhancing online protection;
- Bridgepay – a platform enabling cross-border payments in foreign currencies;
- Cendam – a logistics integrator offering tracking, delivery, and user mediation services.
The event was rounded off with a statement by Mr. Mustapha Ndajiwo, a member of the Niger State Transition Council, who commended the initiative as timely and strategic for the state's digital future.
