The European Union and its partners on Monday unveiled a new digital innovation hub for women in Kano, pledging renewed support for reviving the state’s historic textile industry.
The EU announced the launch of the Women Venture Studio Digital Innovation Hub in Kano, a platform designed to strengthen women-led entrepreneurship and boost their participation in Nigeria’s growing digital economy, according to a statement issued in Abuja.
Considered a major step toward driving economic inclusion in northern Nigeria, the hub will equip women entrepreneurs with digital skills, market access and business networks required to compete in an evolving global economy.
With its focus on digital capabilities, sustainable business models and circular fashion, the initiative blends technology and creativity to build a competitive, future-ready female workforce.
Speaking at the event, the Head of Green and Digital Economy at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Inga Stefanowicz, described the launch as proof of what collaborative partnerships can achieve.
“The European Union is proud to be behind this initiative, but it is the local partners, like GIZ and others, who are truly bringing this vision to life,” she said. “We are here to support, but it is you—the innovators, entrepreneurs and communities—who will carry this work forward.”
She noted Kano’s reputation as a cultural hub and its growing potential as a centre for digital innovation.
“The Women Venture Studio shows how we can combine local heritage with the power of technology to drive growth and women’s empowerment,” she said.
Lead Partner of the Women Venture Studio, Mariam Lawan Gwadabe, described the hub as the product of years of persistence and collaboration.
“Nothing truly worthwhile ever comes easily,” she said. “This launch is a testament to resilience and the unwavering belief that women in northern Nigeria can shape economic progress.”
She added that the project’s focus on circular fashion draws inspiration from Kano’s textile heritage. “Kano was once the ‘Manchester of textiles’ in West Africa. Our goal is to revive that legacy using digital technologies and circular-economy principles, creating sustainable opportunities for women.”
Country Lead at the Digital Transformation Centre Nigeria, Thuweba Diwali, represented by Daniel Ritter, said the hub represents a strategic investment in inclusive economic growth.
He commended partners for “never stopping, driving and pushing to reach this moment.”
Kano State Deputy Governor, Aminu Gwarzo, endorsed the initiative and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding opportunities for women.
