Enugu Tech Festival 2026 aims for 50,000 participants, spotlighting innovation and transforming the state’s coal legacy into a thriving digital economy

The Enugu State Government has unveiled ambitious plans for the 2026 edition of the Enugu Tech Festival, targeting 50,000 participants from across the country.

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Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Lawrence Ezeh, made the announcement in Enugu while inaugurating the festival’s Central Planning Committee.

The event, themed ‘Coal to Code: Energy in New Form’, is scheduled to take place from 24 to 27 February 2026. It will explore how technology and innovation can transform Enugu’s coal heritage into a dynamic digital economy.

“We are building on the success of our inaugural Tech Festival, which attracted over 28,000 participants. For 2026, our target is 50,000,” Dr Ezeh said.

He explained that the festival supports the development vision of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration, which aims to make Enugu a leading hub for digital skills and innovation.

“This festival speaks directly to Governor Mbah’s commitment to a tech-enabled future for our state. We are creating an ecosystem that fosters creativity, innovation and job creation,” he added.

Dr Ezeh revealed that the planning committee includes a Local Organising Committee (LOC) and an advisory board. While the LOC will oversee logistics and stakeholder engagement, the advisory board will offer strategic direction and partnership mobilisation.

Activities lined up include keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, exhibitions, and networking events focused on entrepreneurship and digital growth.

He described the theme ‘Coal to Code’ as symbolic of Enugu’s evolution from a coal-powered past to a digitally-driven future.

“I was privileged to engage with global innovators at the VIVA Tech event in Paris. We want to replicate that energy and structure in Enugu, using international best practices blended with local ideas,” he said.

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Dr Ezeh encouraged the private sector, academic institutions, and youth to participate actively. He expressed confidence that the 2026 festival would attract local and international partnerships, boost innovation, and reposition Enugu as a tech investment destination.