Kwara State's Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Mr Segun Ogunsola, has declared that the establishment of the Ilorin ICT Innovation Hub will significantly boost the state's socio-economic development and position Kwara on the global technology map.

Speaking at the official handover ceremony of the hub by contractor MC&T Limited to the state government, the commissioner stated: "This hub will enhance the state's economy and showcase our capabilities in the technology sector globally."

Mr Ogunsola thanked Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for granting supervising ministries the freedom to operate effectively during the hub's construction. He highlighted the governor's leadership as pivotal to the project's success.

Alhaji Abdulsalam Omole, Director of Corporate Communications & Public Affairs at MC&T Limited, also praised the state government and the governor for driving the initiative, calling it a transformative step for Ilorin's tech ecosystem.

"On behalf of MC&T Limited, I am deeply honoured to stand before you at the official handover ceremony of the Ilorin Innovation Hub.

"This project represents a significant milestone, not only for our company but also for the state, as it embodies progress, innovation, and the collective vision of a brighter future.

"From the inception of this project, our goal was to create a space that fosters creativity, technological advancement, and entrepreneurial growth as requested by both the owners and operations partner (IHS). Today, as we proudly present the completed Ilorin Innovation Hub. we are confident that it will serve as a catalyst for knowledge exchange, skills development, and economic empowerment.

"We extend our profound gratitude to the Kwara State Government for entrusting us with this vision and providing unwavering support throughout the construction process.

"We also appreciate the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, including our dedicated project team, partners, and the indigenes of the state whose cooperation made this accomplishment possible.

"As the doors of the Ilorin Innovation Hub open to welcome innovators, entrepreneurs, and visionaries, we remain committed to building infrastructures that not only meet but exceed expectations. We believe this centre will significantly contribute to the socio-economic transformation of Ilorin and Kwara State as a whole."

Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Business, Innovation, and Technology, Damilola Yusuf-Adelodun, commended Governor AbdulRazaq for his unalloyed support towards the completion of the llorin innovation hub She said AbdulRazaq's vision for the hub aligns with his administration's focus on empowering young people with skills and opportunities.

The Commissioner stressed: "Governor AbdulRazaq's administration has been recognised for its commitment to creating an enabling environment for technology talent and startups to thrive.

"It will provide ample opportunities for youths to channel their creativity positively; Mentor young leaders and entrust them with key leadership positions," she noted.

The Commissioner, who equally highlighted the significance of the Ilorin Innovation Hub in fostering economic growth and development in the state, maintained that the hub will not only empower the young people, but inspire creativity for the benefit of the state's economy.

Yusuf-Adelodun further pointed out, "The Ilorin Innovation Hub is expected to have a significant impact on the state's economy and youth development.

"It will also contribute to the state's economic, providing training and skill development opportunities for youths; attract investments and partnerships from local and international organisations."

In his remark, the Managing Director of the Ilorin Innovation Hub, Temi Kolawole, emphasised the hub's potential to drive technological growth and innovation in Kwara State.

He assured that "the hub will create an environment that supports innovation and entrepreneurship, providing tools and resources for success in the digital economy of this transformative journey.

"We look forward to seeing the positive impact this hub will undoubtedly create in the years to come," he said emphatically.