Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State, has declared Lagos the innovation nerve centre of Africa at GITEX Nigeria, affirming the state’s readiness to lead the region’s digital transformation.
Speaking at the opening of the two-day event, Governor Sanwo-Olu said the arrival of GITEX Nigeria in Lagos marks a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s tech ecosystem. He described Lagos as the “launchpad for Africa’s future,” stressing its crucial role in advancing Nigeria’s ambition for a data-driven government and a digitally empowered population.
Following the high-level Government Leadership & AI Summit in Abuja, Lagos is hosting West Africa’s largest technology, AI, and startup show.
“Lagos is not just a city for today. It is Africa’s innovation nerve centre and a launchpad for Africa’s tomorrow,” Sanwo-Olu said, underscoring his administration’s commitment to harnessing technology for societal betterment.
The Governor emphasized the importance of adopting a digital, inclusive, and data-driven approach to 21st-century governance. By leveraging technology, Lagos aims to ensure that policy decisions are informed by real-time insights while enabling citizens through inclusive connectivity.
The GITEX Nigeria event, held under the patronage of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is supported by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
Endorsed by the Lagos State Government and organized by KAOUN International, the event features two concurrent 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 are designed to accelerate the digitalization of non-tech sectors, spotlight Nigeria’s burgeoning startup ecosystem, boost investor confidence, and promote stronger public-private partnerships.
