As unemployment and economic hardship continue to affect millions of young Nigerians, the Ilorin Innovation Hub has unveiled an ambitious digital empowerment programme aimed at helping youths earn as much as $2,000 monthly through technology and innovation-driven careers.
The facility, widely regarded as the largest innovation hub in West Africa, is training young people in high-demand fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), software development, digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and other emerging technology skills needed in today’s global economy.
Speaking during a guided tour of the facility in Ilorin, the Managing Director of the Ilorin Innovation Hub, Mr. Temi Kolawole, said the initiative was created to bridge the gap between learning and sustainable income generation.
According to him, the hub’s flagship “Learn to Earn” programme goes beyond conventional skills training by ensuring participants are equipped with practical knowledge that can translate into real earnings.
Want to stay updated about everything in NIGERIA?
Click the button below to join our WhatsApp group...
“We have a programme called Learn to Earn that guarantees that once participants complete the intensive training programme, which lasts for over a year, they begin earning at least $2,000 monthly. The objective is not just to train people but to help them become economically productive,” Kolawole said.
Training, Workspace, Mentorship All Free
Kolawole disclosed that all services provided by the innovation hub are completely free for users, including training programmes, co-working spaces, mentorship opportunities, and business support services.
He explained that the goal is to remove financial barriers that often prevent talented young people from accessing opportunities within the digital economy.
“We do not charge users for our workspace. Everything is free. We want young people, regardless of their background, to have access to opportunities that can change their lives,” he added.
How Innovators Are Securing Grants and Funding
Beyond skills development, the innovation hub also serves as a platform connecting innovators with investors, development partners, and business leaders.
Kolawole revealed that several participants have already secured grants, funding opportunities, and business support after pitching their ideas at the facility’s dedicated innovation hall.
“This is where people pitch their ideas. Investors have come here to see what innovators are building and many of our participants have secured grants, funding and support through our network,” he said.
AI Now the Most Valuable Skill, Says Hub MD
The Managing Director described Artificial Intelligence as one of the most important skills young Nigerians should focus on learning today.
According to him, opportunities now exist in areas such as prompt engineering, AI-powered content creation, and software engineering enhanced by AI tools.
“The number one skill people can learn here today is AI. Whether it is prompt engineering, AI content creation or software engineering powered by AI tools, AI is shaping the future of work and that is where we are focusing our efforts,” he stated.
Backed by Kwara Government, IHS Towers, CcHub
Kolawole explained that the Ilorin Innovation Hub is a flagship initiative of the Kwara State Government, powered by IHS Towers in partnership with Co-creation Hub (CcHub) and Future Africa.
The facility covers more than 13,000 square metres and can accommodate over 1,000 users at a time.
He noted that incubation and acceleration programmes officially commenced on February 27, 2025, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in November 2023.
Over 30,000 People Impacted
Providing insights into the hub’s achievements, Kolawole said more than 30,000 people have benefited from over 150 programmes and events organised across Kwara, Kogi, Niger, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, Ondo states, and the Federal Capital Territory.
He further disclosed that:
- More than 170 participants have completed training under the Learn to Earn programme.
- About 3,000 entrepreneurs are currently being trained under the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) entrepreneurship programme.
- The DBN initiative is expected to generate nearly 2,000 jobs within its first year.
- Nine startups have been accelerated while 10 others have been incubated through the hub’s partnership with Accelerate Africa.
Participants in the accelerator programme can also access funding support of up to ₦10 million, alongside other financial opportunities available through partner organisations.
Users Hail Initiative
Some beneficiaries who spoke during the visit described the hub as a game-changing initiative for students, entrepreneurs, and professionals.
A researcher, Adenugba Joshua, praised the facility’s work-friendly environment and uninterrupted power supply.
“The experience has been impressive. The power supply here is constant, and the staff are respectful. Working here has afforded me the opportunity to meet new people and connect with professionals from different fields,” he said.
Similarly, Roqeeb Armasodun, a student of Kwara State Polytechnic, said access to the hub significantly improved her academic performance.
“My result in the last semester was impressive because I ensured that I came here to study. I sincerely thank Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for this initiative. It has greatly helped students, young entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts,” she said.
A New Digital Future for Nigerian Youths
With world-class facilities including high-speed 5G internet, uninterrupted power supply, smart classrooms, co-working spaces, incubation suites, digital laboratories, solar-powered infrastructure, and disability-friendly access, the Ilorin Innovation Hub is fast becoming one of Nigeria’s leading centres for innovation and talent development.
As the demand for digital skills continues to rise globally, the hub is positioning thousands of young Nigerians to compete for opportunities in the international technology ecosystem while creating jobs and businesses at home.
Want to stay updated about everything in NIGERIA?
Click the button below to join our WhatsApp group...
Leave a comment