The Ilorin Innovation Hub has revealed a strategic partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to launch an advanced Makerspace, aiming to elevate innovation and skill development in Kwara State.

The collaboration seeks to establish a leading model for innovation hub partnerships, combining visionary governance, global development insights, private sector expertise, and academic resources to drive sustainable technology and skill enhancement in Nigeria and across Africa.

The UNDP Makerspace will be a cutting-edge facility designed to foster tangible innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship. Equipped with advanced hardware, such as 3D printers, laser cutters, and robotics kits, the space will enable innovators, tech enthusiasts, and entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into physical solutions. By providing access to modern technology and resources, the Makerspace will support the development of technical skills and the creation of prototypes, positioning Kwara State as a center for sustainable economic growth driven by technological progress.

Temi Kolawole, Managing Director of the Ilorin Innovation Hub, expressed his excitement about the initiative: “The partnership with UNDP is a huge milestone in institutionalizing the Hub. This Makerspace will play a pivotal role in nurturing homegrown talent, building technical skills, and positioning Kwara State as a hub for technological inventions.”

He also highlighted how this strategic collaboration sets the standard for comprehensive tech partnerships, uniting forces with IHS Towers and academia to establish a holistic ecosystem for innovation. “Even our choice of contractors has been strategic such as working with Spacefinish, who are a leader in innovation space design, for the interior and furnishings” he added.

The collaboration with UNDP completes a full spectrum of technological resources, perfectly complementing the Hub's existing focus on telecoms, software, and now hardware innovation. By bringing together an international development organization, a private sector telecoms giant like IHS Towers, and leading academic institutions, the Ilorin Innovation Hub has crafted a robust model for tech-driven growth. This synergy ensures that innovators in Kwara State have access to unparalleled tools, expertise, and networks, cementing the Hub's reputation as a pioneer in sustainable, global innovation partnerships.

Located on Ahmadu Bello Way in the new developing metropolis of Ilorin, the Ilorin Innovation Hub remains dedicated to creating a dynamic ecosystem where innovation can flourish. The addition of the UNDP Makerspace further solidifies this commitment, promising a wide range of opportunities for young innovators, entrepreneurs, and students.

About the Ilorin Innovation Hub:

The Ilorin Innovation Hub, powered by IHS Towers, is a center for innovation and technology in Kwara State, dedicated to empowering youth and entrepreneurs through technology, innovation, and digital literacy. Learn more at iih.ng or follow at @ilorinhub.