On Thursday afternoon, Kachifu Inuwa, Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and Trixie LohMirmand, Managing Director of the Dubai World Trade Centre, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to bring GITEX Africa to Nigeria in 2025. GITEX Africa is the continent’s largest tech showcase.
Event Details and Expectations
Although the exact dates are yet to be confirmed, a source with direct knowledge of the event informed that it is expected to be held in September 2025 across two major cities: Lagos and Abuja.
A Unique Approach to GITEX
“We’re not planning to bring the same GITEX happening around the world. We want to bring a unique formula that aligns with the national strategy of Nigeria,” LohMirmand explained, emphasizing the tailored approach for Nigeria.
Support from the Nigerian Government
President Tinubu has underscored the importance of economic diversification for Nigeria. “President Tinubu is big and loud on economic diversification and you cannot trade in isolation. The President has mandated us to facilitate parts of this diversification,” Kachifu Inuwa stated, highlighting the government’s commitment to this initiative.
Opportunities for Nigeria and Africa
As the continent’s most populous nation with a thriving tech ecosystem, Nigeria’s hosting of GITEX Africa presents significant opportunities. The event will showcase the country’s leading companies and startups, providing a platform for innovation and collaboration. This move is expected to attract global attention to Nigeria’s vibrant technology scene and support the country’s economic diversification efforts.
Conclusion
The agreement to host GITEX Africa in Nigeria marks a pivotal moment for the country’s tech industry. It promises to foster growth, innovation, and international collaboration, aligning with Nigeria’s broader economic goals. The event will not only highlight Nigeria’s technological advancements but also position the nation as a key player in Africa’s tech landscape.