Lagos has officially opened its doors to West Africa’s largest tech Summit, AI, and startup show, following a momentous launch of GITEX NIGERIA in Abuja. Local and international guests gathered in the commercial and innovation capital for two days of discussions shaping Africa’s digital future.

H.E. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State, emphasised that Lagos is “a launchpad for Africa’s tomorrow,” ready to support Nigeria’s journey toward a data-driven government and digitally empowered population.

Held under the patronage of H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President of Nigeria, GITEX NIGERIA runs from 1-4 September across Abuja and Lagos. The event is supported by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and NITDA, endorsed by the Lagos State Government, and organised by KAOUN International.

Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted Lagos’s credentials as an African innovation hub. He said, “Governance in the 21st century must be digital, inclusive, and data-driven. Here in Lagos, we are creating the future, building a government where policy decisions respond to real-time insights and connectivity empowers every citizen.”

The event features dual showcases: the GITEX NIGERIA Tech Expo & Future Economy Conference at the Eko Hotel Convention Centre, and the GITEX NIGERIA Startup Festival at the Landmark Centre. These platforms spotlight Lagos’s digital potential and Nigeria’s growing startup ecosystem, investor confidence, and public-private partnership opportunities.

Hon. Minister Bosun Tijani stressed the importance of the digital economy. He said, “Technology must grow GDP, expand opportunities, reduce inequality, and create shared prosperity for all Nigerians. Under President Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria embraces the digital economy as a key driver of inclusive growth.”

Between 2019 and 2024, Lagos attracted over US$6 billion in foreign tech investment, hosting hyperscale data centres and extensive fibre connectivity, representing over 70% of Nigeria’s total tech inflows. The state is also home to 23 of Nigeria’s 28 fastest-growing companies, according to the Financial Times.

Kashifu Abdullahi, CEO of NITDA, said, “Lagos is a crucible of innovation where talent meets the will to succeed. People here create solutions even without extensive infrastructure. The potential is boundless.”

Trixie LohMirmand, EVP of Dubai World Trade Centre, highlighted Lagos as a high-speed technology testbed. She said, “SMEs, startups, and entrepreneurs thrive here through distinctiveness and necessity-driven innovation. Products scaled in Lagos can compete globally.”

GITEX NIGERIA is supported by partners including AWS, Cisco, IFC, Kaspersky, the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, and Space42.

Key Points:

• Lagos hosts West Africa’s largest tech and startup event.
• GITEX NIGERIA features dual showcases for tech and startups.
• Lagos continues to attract foreign tech investment and innovation.

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