Nigeria hosts GITEX 2026 to advance AI and tech innovation

The GITEX Nigeria 2026 event has commenced, spanning Abuja and Lagos to advance the country’s position in the global intelligence economy. Held under the patronage of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the event focuses on the theme “Beyond Connectivity: The Bridge to Sovereign AI and Innovation,” aiming to transition Nigeria from a consumer of imported technology to a producer of digital solutions.

The summit brings together over 1,000 startups, 300 investors, 40 banking institutions, and 150 federal and state agencies. Lagos, which serves as the event’s hub, has been recognized as a rapidly growing tech ecosystem, housing nearly 1,000 active startups and representing a significant portion of Nigeria’s tech sector.

Despite this growth, challenges remain for the nation’s innovation economy. Experts note that for Nigeria to become a true technology powerhouse, it must address critical infrastructure needs, including reliable electricity, broadband access, cloud services, and data centers, alongside closing existing skills gaps.