halil Halilu envisions an Africa where homegrown innovation drives global change. He emphasizes that the continent is no longer just consuming innovation but becoming a source of transformative ideas in fintech, agritech, and renewable energy. Highlighting examples like M-Pesa and solar startups, he illustrates how technology and sustainability are improving lives and fueling growth. Through his work at NASENI, he underscores the importance of investing in research and building ecosystems that support local entrepreneurs. For him, Africa’s future is not distant—it’s already unfolding through innovation, opportunity, and impact Khalil Suleiman Halilu, the Executive Vice Chairman of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), is driving innovation in Nigeria’s industrial and technological sectors. Under his leadership, NASENI has become a hub for advancing industrialization through science, engineering, and technology transfer. His approach is centered on creation, collaboration, and commercialization, ensuring that technological advancements contribute to economic growth.Before joining NASENI, Khalil was a successful entrepreneur and technology advocate. He founded ShapShap Technologies, OyaOya, and the CANs Technology Hub, West Africa’s first eco-friendly tech hub. His work spans logistics, agriculture, and e-commerce, where he has harnessed technology to solve practical problems and generate employment. His ability to integrate business with technology has solidified his role as a key figure in Nigeria’s innovation landscape. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx