Government and traditional leadership in Kwara State have endorsed the newly launched Craft Innovation Hub, highlighting its potential to significantly impact youth empowerment and economic growth. During the launch at Agbo Oba, Ilorin, Honourable Commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology, Damilola Yusuf Adelodun, and the Alangua of Adewole, Alhaji Yusuf Yakubu Adewole, emphasized the hub as a critical step towards digital innovation, vocational excellence, and community development.
Commissioner Adelodun described the hub as a unique initiative that merges traditional craftsmanship with modern digital solutions, directly aligning with the state’s strategic development objectives. “Today marks a celebration of creativity and innovation,” she stated. “Through the Craft Innovation Hub, we are not only preparing our young people for the digital economy but also creating pathways for job creation and sustainable economic growth. Kwara State is committed to positioning itself as a centre of digital excellence.”
Alangua Adewole expressed enthusiasm, noting the hub’s alignment with the values and aspirations of the Emirate and local community. “This initiative reflects progress, inclusivity, and hope,” he remarked. “Established during the reign of Emir Ibrahim Zulu Gambari and Balogun Ajikobi, it demonstrates our collective vision for empowering youths and fostering community resilience. We must embrace and support such initiatives that equip our young people with the tools for a prosperous future.”
Local residents and beneficiaries voiced strong support, highlighting the importance of unified leadership in community development. “Seeing our traditional and government leaders come together for this initiative inspires confidence and optimism,” said Femi, a local entrepreneur. “Our youth can now access skills that enable them to contribute positively to their community right here at home.”
Reflecting on previous successful initiatives, Commissioner Adelodun emphasized the government’s commitment to job creation, referencing past achievements such as the Ilorin Innovation Hub’s Art Hackathon, which benefited several local artists. “It is essential we continue investing in platforms that combine innovation, education, and entrepreneurship,” she added.
Concluding the event, both Commissioner Adelodun and Alangua Adewole called for continued collaboration between government, private sector, and the community to support the Craft Innovation Hub. “This is our collective project,” the Commissioner stated, “and together, we will harness the power of innovation to build a brighter, more prosperous future for Kwara State.” As the hub officially commences operations, the united endorsement from Kwara’s leadership provides a strong foundation for a promising chapter in community development and digital innovation across the state.
