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U.S. Grammy-winning artist and entrepreneur Wyclef Jean has partnered with Caribbean International Commerce (CICH) to create a groundbreaking tech hub in Northern Nigeria.
This collaboration aims to establish a technology and infrastructure hub in Plateau State spanning over 4,000 hectares of land. The goal is to accelerate sustainability, economic growth, and technological innovation in the region.
“This partnership represents a fusion of creativity, sustainability, and economic empowerment, Jean said. “We are bringing the music of innovation to the world, and the world to the music of Nigeria. Together, we are creating harmony in both art and commerce, setting a new standard for a brighter, greener future.”
Highlights of the project include green technologies, sustainable housing developments, and state-of-the-art music and movie studios.
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The project is a symphony of innovation, encompassing state-of-the-art music and movie studios, a planned platform for a more equitable distribution of wealth in commodity markets, and a commitment to eco-friendly practices, according to the media release.
The utilization of cutting-edge Energy Glass Solar ™ technology, and Sustainable Building with Veerhouse Voda USA underpins every aspect of the endeavor, demonstrating a clear commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Muftwang, Governor, Plateau State speaking on this alliance said: “Expressed gratitude that his recent engagements in the United States of America have begun yielding fruits, attracting immediate investments such as this industrial park and technology innovation hub. These sorts of synergies will naturally provide a platform for scaling up and exposing the young talents on the Plateau towards sharing their gifts with the world.
The Wyclef Jean and Caribbean International Commerce is one of the key collaborations that will harvest the plethora of creative talents in Plateau State and export them to the world. The Time is now for breathtaking initiatives and Plateau state is a fertile ground for such.”
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In early 2024, Wyclef Jean is scheduled to visit Jos to participate in the Incredible Music Festival. The event will be hosted by renowned Nigerian rapper, Jude “MI” Abaga. MI, who serves as an honorary adviser on entertainment and creativity to the Plateau state government, will see to the implementation of the project alongside Jean.
The project will feature a music and movie studio, that will serve as a creative incubator, providing emerging talent with access to world-class equipment and facilities.
In 2020, Jean’s Carnival World Music Group raised $25 million in capital funding to invest in music publishing and production in parts of Africa, the Caribbean, and other underserved markets.
Wyclef Jean’s new collaboration with the Plateau state government will support ongoing initiatives by other players to boost Northern Nigeria’s tech sector.
On December 4, 2023, Nasir El-Rufai, former Kaduna State governor, announced plans to launch a $100 million fund aimed at diversifying startup investments in Nigeria beyond Lagos.
Also, in November 2023, Aduna Capital, a Nigerian VC firm, announced the launch of a $20 million fund. The fund will invest 55.5% of its capital in startups in Northern Nigeria, with the rest split between other regions of the country and Africa.
Wyclef Jean performs in Omaha at Memorial Park. Please credit Matt A.J.
