Yobe State Pursues UNDP Innovation Grant and University Tech Hub

Yobe State government officials have entered discussions with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) regarding a potential US$250,000 innovation grant. The engagement aims to expand development cooperation in the state, shifting the focus from humanitarian assistance to sustainable economic recovery and private-sector investment. According to a statement released by Ibrahim Baba Saleh, the Media Coordinator for the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), these talks are part of a broader strategy to unlock new opportunities for growth in Yobe.

The specific opportunity was outlined during a technical meeting held in Damaturu between Dr Mohammed Goje, the Secretary to the State Government, and a UNDP delegation. The UNDP team was led by Charles Mback, Head of the UNDP Northeast Sub-Office. During this session, the UNDP representatives briefed the state government on the proposed innovation support as well as other ongoing development interventions in the region.

Background

This technical meeting served as a follow-up to high-level discussions that took place in Abuja the previous week. In Abuja, Dr Goje, acting on the directive of Governor Mai Mala Buni, met with Ms Elsie G. Attafuah, the UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria. The primary objective of those initial talks was to reposition the long-standing partnership between Yobe State and the UNDP. The goal is to move the relationship beyond immediate humanitarian aid and towards long-term objectives such as youth empowerment, inclusive economic growth, and innovation.

A central component of this renewed partnership is the proposed establishment of a University Innovation Pod, known as a UniPod, at Yobe State University in Damaturu. The site is designed to function as a key hub for promoting entrepreneurial ventures, practical research, and the development of digital capabilities. By connecting the state’s growing youth population with emerging technologies and innovation networks, the administration hopes to support a transition toward a diversified, knowledge-driven economy. Furthermore, representatives from the UNDP shared progress reports regarding the Durable Solutions Programme alongside various active initiatives in the medical and educational sectors.

Why it matters

The proposed initiatives are designed to address the needs of young people, women, and vulnerable populations in Yobe State. Dr Goje emphasized that strategic partnerships must result in clearly defined initiatives that deliver measurable benefits to communities, rather than remaining at the discussion stage. The administration has highlighted its sustained investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and livelihoods, noting a focus on translating recent recovery gains into sustainable economic opportunities. The US$250,000 grant and the UniPod are seen as key tools in this effort to foster long-term development outcomes and support the state's economic diversification.

What happens next

Dr Goje reiterated the government's dedication to offering the requisite institutional alignment and technical assistance to move forward with these suggested plans. However, he noted that the implementation of the grant and the innovation hub is subject to applicable programme requirements. The state government is prepared to facilitate the successful execution of these projects, provided they meet the stipulated conditions set by the UNDP and other relevant bodies.