The city of Enugu is set to welcome technology leaders from around the world at the 2026 Enugu Tech Festival, scheduled to run from 24 to 27 February. Organised by the Enugu State Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, the festival expects nearly 50,000 participants, including startup founders, software developers, investors, academics, policymakers, and students from Nigeria, other African countries, and international innovation hubs.

The festival will feature workshops, panel discussions, and skill-building sessions covering artificial intelligence, blockchain, cybersecurity, fintech, robotics, data science, cloud computing, and other emerging technologies. Selected startups will have the opportunity to pitch their innovations directly to investors and gain post-festival support and advisory services, ensuring long-term growth beyond the four-day event.

Governor Peter Mbah is expected to formally open the teh festival, showcasing Enugu’s ongoing transformation from the historic Coal City into a hub for digital innovation. His administration has invested in infrastructure upgrades, Smart Green Schools, improved transport networks, and digitisation of public services, all aimed at positioning the state for long-term competitiveness in technology and innovation.

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Officials from federal ministries, international delegations, and private-sector leaders are also scheduled to attend, highlighting the festival’s importance as a platform to strengthen collaboration between government, startups, investors, and academia. Organisers say the event will consolidate Enugu’s position as a knowledge-driven economy and a key player in Africa’s growing tech ecosystem.

A defining feature of the 2026 Tech Festival edition will be large-scale digital skills training. Over three consecutive days, participants will receive instruction in software development, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and digital project management, delivered by trainers from the United Kingdom and local partners. Participants will also earn certifications upon completion, providing them with credentials that align local talent with global standards and increasing employability in the digital economy.

The festival will also include the Startup Showcase and Investment Forum, where emerging entrepreneurs will present their innovations to investors and strategic partners. Organisers say that selected startups will gain access to post-festival incubation support, mentorship, and advisory services, reinforcing Enugu’s commitment to long-term enterprise growth rather than short-term publicity.

Meiza Nigeria