Governor Chukwuma Soludo has disbursed N80 million to 80 startups in Anambra State as part of efforts to position the state as a leading technology and innovation hub in Nigeria.
The funding was announced during the Anambra Startup Investment and Technology Skills Graduation Ceremony held in Awka, where 400 technology professionals trained in robotics and network engineering also graduated.
Organised by the Solution Innovation District (SID), the event showcased the state’s commitment to building a technology-driven economy through entrepreneurship support, digital skills development, and broadband infrastructure expansion.
Under the programme, each of the 80 startups that completed SID’s 12-week incubation programme received N1 million to support business growth and innovation.
Speaking at the event, Governor Soludo reaffirmed his administration’s vision of transforming Anambra into “Africa’s Silicon Valley,” stressing that investments in technology and innovation are critical to creating jobs and preparing young people for opportunities in the global digital economy.
The governor urged beneficiaries to utilise the funding and skills acquired to build sustainable businesses capable of driving economic growth and employment.
SID Chief Executive Officer and Special Adviser to the Governor on Innovation and Business Incubation, Ms. Chinwe Okoli, revealed that over 111 startups have benefited from the district’s incubation and acceleration programmes, while more than 264,000 residents have already been reached through the state’s 1 Million Anambra Digital Tribe initiative.
The event also celebrated the graduation of 300 participants from a robotics training programme and 100 beneficiaries of an ISP Network Engineering Programme focused on broadband deployment, fibre optic installation, and internet service operations.
In a major boost to the state’s digital infrastructure agenda, the Chief Executive Officer of Connekt Broadband, Mr. Ifeanyi Adirika, announced a N1 billion Connectivity Fund to expand broadband access across Anambra’s 21 local government areas.
Officials said the newly trained graduates will support the ongoing 2,000-kilometre fibre-optic rollout project aimed at improving internet access in underserved communities.
The state government also disclosed plans to transform the former Government House premises into a permanent technology campus that will serve as a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital talent development.
Stakeholders at the event described the combination of startup funding, digital skills training, and broadband investment as a significant step toward building a globally competitive, technology-led economy in Anambra State.
