Africa’s celebrated tech entrepreneur, Dr. Leo Stan Ekeh, has urged young innovators to embrace technology with purpose and boldness.

Ekeh, gave the advice while addressing a packed audience at the Enugu Tech Festival, organized by the Enugu state government through the Ministry of Science and Technology under the leadership of honourable commissioner Dr. Prince Lawrence Ezeh.

“Hope is not a strategy in the 21st century,” Ekeh told the captivated audience, adding that while optimism is valuable, it must be matched by concrete skills and bold execution.

In a world dominated by algorithms, artificial intelligence, and disruptive innovation, he said success belongs to those who dare to act and build decisively.

The tech entrepreneur therefore charged the young innovators to use technology not just to make a living but to change lives. “Tech, has the power to redefine Enugu, Nigeria, and Africa — but only if we approach it with purpose,” he declared.

The honorable minister for Youth Development, Mr. Olawande, characterized the event as the largest youth gathering for a technology-focused program. He further praised the organizers and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to youth empowerment.

In his speech, the executive governor of Enugu state stated that his government has set a bold target of growing its economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion in eight years through a 27 percent annual growth rate.

Themed “From Coal to Code,” the festival marked a bold shift from legacy industries to a future powered by innovation. Initiatives like this tech festival are strategic steps toward that vision, positioning Enugu as a hub for business tourism, innovation, and inclusive prosperity. But for this dream to materialize, all stakeholders must act.