Ilorin — Charles Uche Emembolu, FNIEEE, FNCS, PMP®, Chief Executive Officer of Crestsage Limited, has underscored the importance of sustained investment in innovation ecosystems and talent development following his participation in the launch weekend of the Deep Tech Accelerator cohort at the Ilorin Innovation Hub.
The event, held two weekends ago, brought together technology leaders, ecosystem builders, entrepreneurs, and aspiring innovators to mark the commencement of a new accelerator cohort focused on advancing market-ready deep technology solutions.
Speaking during the launch, Emembolu described the visit as a defining moment that reaffirmed his long-standing commitment to building institutions and pathways that enable sustainable innovation. Despite a demanding schedule, he said the decision to travel to Ilorin proved worthwhile, offering a timely reminder of the purpose behind years of ecosystem-building efforts.
A key highlight of the weekend was a fireside conversation between Emembolu and Chukwuemeka Afigbo, an ecosystem builder and technology leader. The session featured candid reflections on leadership, talent development, and the realities of building enduring institutions. Drawing from his personal and professional journey, Emembolu shared insights into what it takes to nurture human capital and create structures that support long-term growth in Africa’s technology sector.
Emembolu also praised the Ilorin Innovation Hub, describing it as one of the most thoughtfully designed innovation facilities in Nigeria. Built and funded by IHS Towers, the hub exemplifies the impact of long-term thinking, corporate leadership, and public-private collaboration in fostering innovation. According to him, the facility demonstrates how strategic investment can support practical, market-driven business solutions while strengthening local innovation capacity.
During his engagement with the Ilorin community, Emembolu shared personal stories from his journey, including experiences he noted had not previously been discussed publicly. He commended the enthusiasm, curiosity, and openness of participants, stating that the energy in the room reflected a generation eager to learn, build, and contribute meaningfully to the technology ecosystem.
Reflecting on the visit, Emembolu referenced a quote by Vincent van Gogh, noting that impactful achievements are often the result of deliberate, consistent effort rather than sudden breakthroughs. He described the experience as a powerful reminder that progress in innovation is built through collective, incremental actions.
He expressed appreciation to the Ilorin Innovation Hub team for their hospitality and affirmed his commitment to continued collaboration. Emembolu also announced plans to host members of the accelerator cohort, organisers, and partners at the upcoming Omniverse Africa 3.0 Summit, scheduled to hold in Lagos from February 24 to 27, 2026.
The summit is expected to convene technology leaders, innovators, policymakers, and investors from across the continent to explore emerging technologies, digital infrastructure, and Africa’s innovation future.