The Honourable Commissioner for Innovation and Digital Economy, Hon. Bashar Umar Kwabo, attended the official launch of Fooda Naija, an online food ordering application, in Sokoto.
The Commissioner was represented at the event by the Head of Digital Media and Communications of the Sokoto State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (SICTDA), Muhammad Abubakar.
The launch brought together business leaders, techpreneurs and government stakeholders to explore emerging opportunities within the digital economy and how technology-driven platforms can support local enterprises in the state.
In his remarks, the guest speaker and Founder of Horizon Innovation, Ahmad Jagaba, charged the founders not to give up, urging them to strive for lasting impact and remain steadfast despite the challenges of the entrepreneurial journey.
He also encouraged the management to extend their services beyond conventional restaurants to accommodate individuals running food businesses from their homes.
The Commissioner congratulated the Fooda Naija management for the initiative, describing it as a platform that would transform how people discover, order and enjoy meals, while creating opportunities for food vendors, delivery riders and young entrepreneurs to contribute to economic growth and digital inclusion in the state.
Hon. Kwabo further stated that the Ministry was encouraged to see young entrepreneurs leveraging technology to create value for society, adding that the initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to innovation and digital transformation under the administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto.
He advised the management to prioritise quality service, timely delivery and close collaboration with local businesses, stressing that continuous innovation would keep the platform competitive in the growing digital marketplace.
He assured the founders and their team of the Sokoto State Government’s continued support as they begin operations.
One of the highlights of the event was a panel discussion led by Murtala Nuhu, which featured business leaders and techpreneurs. During the session, the panelists offered advice, mentorship and encouragement, with particular emphasis on inspiring the youth of Sokoto State to embrace digital entrepreneurship and explore technology-driven opportunities.
In his closing remarks, the Team Lead of H-Tech Hub and Founder of Fooda Naija, Marcel Obinna, thanked all stakeholders for their support and described the Ministry of Innovation and Digital Economy (MiDE) as a key partner in their initiatives.
He expressed confidence that with such backing, Fooda Naija is well positioned to make a lasting impact on Sokoto State’s digital economy.
The event was attended by business leaders, techpreneurs and stakeholders of H-Tech Hub.
Muhammad Abubakar
16-03-2026
