Nigeria is positioning Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the core of its digital transformation journey, as highlighted at the opening of GITEX NIGERIA, West Africa’s largest technology, AI, and startup exhibition. The event brings together global leaders, policymakers, investors, and innovators to discuss how AI can reshape economies and drive sustainable growth across Africa.
AI as the Backbone of Nigeria’s Digital Strategy
Speaking at the event, Hon. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, emphasized the need for Africa to move beyond being just consumers of technology:
Africa must not treat AI as an afterthought. We must produce, lead, and innovate. Those ahead will accelerate; those behind will fall further. That is why AI must sit at the very centre of our strategy.”
Tijani stressed that collaboration, investment, and decisive policymaking are essential for Africa to shape the future of AI rather than lagging behind.
Lagos as a Digital Innovation Hub
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State highlighted Lagos’s ambition to become a global AI and technology hub, noting that the state is already building critical digital infrastructure and scaling startups to turn policy into measurable progress:
“Lagos is not just ambitious, we are resilient. This is a moment for global tech leaders to see Africa not merely as a market, but as a co-creator in this revolution.”
The Role of NITDA and Human Capital
Kashifu Abdullahi, Director-General/CEO of NITDA, reinforced the transformative potential of AI, citing projections that automation could grow the global economy by 20% and double output within five years.
He added that Nigeria is preparing through:
- Training three million tech talents.
- Embedding digital literacy across society.
- Integrating digital skills into formal education.
“This AI era is not just about technology, it is about talent. When nurtured and empowered, talent will define Nigeria’s progress and global leadership in AI.”
GITEX NIGERIA as a Global AI Platform
Trixie LohMirmand, EVP of Dubai World Trade Centre and CEO of KAOUN International, described GITEX NIGERIA as a launchpad for Nigeria’s role in the global AI race:
“Nigeria’s digital economy is young, vast, and inevitable. As AI competition intensifies, we are determined to secure Nigeria’s seat at the global table of the new digital economy.”
Global Leaders in Attendance
The opening plenary featured high-profile speakers including:
- H.E. Pedro Fernandes Lopes (Secretary of State for Digital Economy, Cape Verde)
- Dahlia Khalifa (Regional Director, IFC)
- Karl Olutokun Toriola (CEO, MTN Nigeria & VP, MTN Group)
- Robin Njiru (Public Sector Lead, AWS Africa)
Event Highlights
Between 3–4 September 2025, the programme transitions to Lagos across two major venues:
- Eko Hotel Convention Centre – GITEX NIGERIA Tech Expo & Future Economy Conference.
- Landmark Centre – GITEX NIGERIA Startup Festival.
These sessions will showcase Nigeria’s ambition to be a regional leader in AI adoption, digital innovation, and startup growth.
