The iHATCH startup incubation programme has been able to create 1179 jobs within three years of its formation.The jobs, which were created by Cohort 1 and 2 had 16 trained startups with 32 participants, and a combined job of 179 and over 1000 indirect jobs.
According to the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Mr Kachifu Inuwa, the programme, a joint initiative of NITDA and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), designed to tackle social issues with innovative and creative solutions, generate employment opportunities, and boost Nigeria’s economic development.
Inuwa who spoke at the closing ceremony of the iHATCH startup incubation programme’s third cohort in Abuja, stated: “Because of the success of cohort one and two, we decided to expand cohort 3 to five locations – Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano and Gombe.”
While challenging the participants to contribute to building a mentoring platform, Inuwa promised NITDA’s support, and urged JICA to consider expanding the initiative to cover all 36 states plus the Federal Capital Territory.
Japan’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Matsunaga Kazuyoshi, in his address stated that Japan is dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship and sustainable development in Nigeria during his remarks.
He emphasised that Japan’s support extends beyond mere technical assistance but focuses on building partnerships that facilitate knowledge exchange.
“As these startups advance, I foresee a stronger collaboration between Nigerian and Japanese companies, leveraging each other’s strengths for mutual prosperity,” Kazuyoshi stated.
He added that since the programme commences in 2021, it has empowered early-stage businesses that are dedicated to addressing societal challenges through innovative technologies and ideas.
“We have 10 standout ventures that will showcase their ingenuity today, and it is a testament to their hard work and the support they have received. Japan’s involvement in this initiative through JICA shows our commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and sustainable development in Nigeria.
“Our experts have provided capacity building and training support, ensuring that these startups gain technical knowledge and imbibe Japanese business ethics, punctuality, adherence to rules, and a relentless pursuit of quality improvement,” he said.
Speaking at the event, one of the winners and founder of Northinho, Mr. Abubakar Umar expressed gratitude to NITDA and JICA for their intensive training.
He said he would utilise the cash prize given to him to advance his venture and encouraged fellow entrepreneurs to remain persistent in their endeavours.
Umar said, “Believe in what you do, even if your ideas are still evolving. Keep working on your projects, and one day you will look back and appreciate how far you have come.”
Three startups were awarded cash prizes; Northinho received $15,000, Dorpals Technologies received $12,000, while Connected received $10,000.
