The Lagos State Government has announced its readiness to host the GITEX Nigeria conference in September 2025, showcasing the state’s growing role as a hub for technology and innovation in Africa.
Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Lagos State Deputy Governor, expressed the government’s enthusiasm during a meeting with Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of Kaoun International, and her team at the ongoing GITEX 2024 in Dubai.
GITEX, the world’s largest tech expo, has brought global attention to tech-driven transformation across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, and will make its debut in Nigeria next year.
Speaking on Lagos’s commitment to advancing technology, Dr. Hamzat highlighted the significant strides the state has made in promoting tech innovation, particularly among young entrepreneurs.
“The Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration has intentionally prioritized technology as a driver of development in the state,” Hamzat said. He emphasized that initiatives like the ‘Art of Technology (AOT)’—now in its fifth year—have been pivotal in discovering and nurturing young talent in the IT and innovation sectors.
The Deputy Governor cited the remarkable impact of Lagos-based innovators, including primary and secondary school pupils developing coding solutions to support small family businesses.
“There are children as young as 10 and 12 coding to help their parents sell products more efficiently, demonstrating the transformative power of technology,” he noted.
Hamzat stressed that bringing GITEX to Lagos would offer global exposure to local innovators and further foster collaboration with international tech players. “We have an incredible reservoir of talent in Lagos. Hosting GITEX will allow the world to see what’s possible here and connect these young minds to opportunities.”
Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of Kaoun International, praised the ingenuity she witnessed in Nigerian tech spaces, reiterating that technology is essential for survival and development.
“During my last visit to Nigeria, I saw young Nigerians in small rooms doing incredible things with technology. We are committed to connecting them to global opportunities,” she said, adding that Kaoun International is seeking support from the Lagos government to ensure a successful event in terms of logistics and security.
Lagos State has consistently participated in GITEX over the past four years, leveraging the platform to attract investments and bolster the capacity of tech startups. Hosting the 2025 edition is expected to further enhance Nigeria’s reputation as a burgeoning tech destination and showcase the state’s commitment to digital transformation.
GITEX is the world’s leading technology showcase, attracting major players from big tech, governments, startups, investors, and corporate buyers annually at the Dubai World Trade Center. The event highlights emerging technologies that are shaping economies across the globe.
