The 2026 conference will be a defining moment in the country’s technological evolution, with the theme: “Responsible AI beyond Innovation.”

Building on the successes of its previous editions, InnovateAI 2026 is poised to shape the national conversation on the critical issues of ethics, security, and governance in artificial intelligence.

The inaugural InnovateAI 2024, themed “Adapting AI for Nigeria,” successfully catalysed policy discussions and attracted over 4,000 physical attendees, including AI Innovators, Academia, Researchers and Policy Makers engaging in public and private sector discourse on AI.

The recently concluded 2025 conference, themed “Scaling AI Adoption in Nigeria,” expanded the event’s reach to over 6,000 physical participants, with live-streaming to twelve AI in Nigeria’s community hubs in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria.

The conference addressed systemic challenges to scaling AI – talent, data, and compute infrastructure.

The 2026 edition represents a crucial strategic evolution. As AI becomes more deeply integrated into daily life, this conference will shift its focus from adoption to a deep dive into the foundational principles necessary for sustainable and trustworthy growth.

In addition to showcasing responsible AI innovations across industries, the conference will feature a series of focused sessions to explore these vital topics:

• AI Governance in Africa: Establishing a framework for a trusted future.
• Deepfakes, Fraud & Security Risks: Protecting Nigeria’s Digital Society from Emerging Threats.
• AI & Financial Services: Building trust in the fight against fraud and ensuring secure transactions.
• Digital Literacy for All: Preparing citizens for the age of AI through education and empowerment.
• Responsible AI Innovation: Balancing safety and growth to support Africa’s burgeoning startup scene.

“AI is reshaping industries, economies, and societies at an unprecedented pace, but innovation without trust and governance risks leaving people behind. InnovateAI 2026 is a platform to ensure Africa defines its own AI future, one where ethics, inclusivity, and safety guide progress,” said Ehia Erhaboh, Co-Convener, AI in Nigeria.

InnovateAI 2026 is poised to bring together policymakers, industry leaders, technology experts, and the public to forge a path forward that ensures AI serves as a force for good, fostering inclusive opportunities, improving healthcare, and enabling smarter governance.

Organizations looking to shape Africa’s AI future are invited to become a partner or sponsor for InnovateAI 2026.

This is a unique opportunity to demonstrate leadership in the responsible AI movement, gain targeted visibility among key stakeholders, industry leaders, policymakers, innovators, and investors – positioning themselves at the forefront of Africa’s responsible AI movement. Your support will directly contribute to a vital national dialogue on AI governance and digital literacy, helping to create a safer, more inclusive, and prosperous future for Nigeria and Africa as a whole.

“This is not just a conference, it’s a catalyst for shaping Africa’s digital future,” said Dotun Adeoye, Co-Convener, AI in Nigeria.

“Our partners’ support is essential in building a more equitable, secure, and prosperous AI ecosystem for Nigeria and beyond.”

About AI in Nigeria: AI in Nigeria is a collective of visionary leaders and tech enthusiasts dedicated to propelling Nigeria to the forefront of the global AI revolution. Its mission is to lead the localisation and scaling of AI across Nigeria by collaborating with stakeholders and global partners to craft solutions for diverse sectors, while advocating for smart AI policies and responsible development. 

For details, email – partnership@aiinnigeria.com

Franklin Ali, group chief human resources officer, Interswitch, shared these insights during the InnovateAI Conference Lagos 2025, recently held at the Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Interswitch participated as a Platinum Sponsor for the second consecutive year, reinforcing its commitment to advancing AI-driven innovation across Africa.

Themed “Scaling AI Adoption in Nigeria: Catalysing Cross-Sectoral Innovation and Fostering Inclusive Growth,” the conference brought together AI enthusiasts, industry experts, scholars, and innovators and provided a platform for knowledge exchange, thought-provoking discussions, and hands-on learning sessions.

These sessions aimed to accelerate AI adoption across key industries, including fintech, financial services, public services, and oil and gas, to boost operational efficiency and drive economic growth.

During a panel session titled “AI & The Future of Work in Nigeria,” Ali highlighted the urgent need for young professionals to embrace AI skills, mindset shifts, and continuous learning to stay relevant in an increasingly automated world.

“The AI economy is a gateway to the knowledge economy, and it is imperative that we embrace this shift,” Franklin stated. “While AI adoption in leading economies like America and China remains below 50 per cent, these nations are at the forefront of AI advancements. To compete globally, Nigeria must prioritise reskilling and upskilling its workforce, fostering a mindset shift, and equipping professionals with core and enabling skills such as data literacy, JavaScript, and other technical competencies.”

He also emphasised the importance of targeted learning and problem-solving:

“AI is not just a buzzword; it is a tool for solving real-world problems. For instance, traffic congestion in Lagos is a challenge that can be addressed through AI-driven solutions. However, adept use of AI technology requires a deep understanding of core tech skills in areas like natural language processing, robotics, and machine learning. We must learn AI not for the sake of it but to solve specific problems that impact our society and economy.”

Ali further encouraged young professionals to seize opportunities in the tech industry, noting its significant financial rewards and career growth potential.

He also challenged the misconception that AI is exclusive to tech fields, urging professionals across all industries to embrace digital transformation or risk obsolescence.

He pointed out that while AI could lead to job displacement for those unwilling to adapt, whilst presenting new opportunities for those equipped with relevant skills.

One of the standout segments at the event, the Innovation Showcase, spotlighted groundbreaking AI-driven solutions tailored to Nigeria’s unique challenges, further reinforcing the role of AI in transforming key sectors.

Interswitch’s sponsorship of the InnovateAI Conference Lagos 2025 underscores the company’s steadfast commitment to advancing technology and its applications, including AI, to drive financial inclusion and digital transformation.

By collaborating with key stakeholders and fostering industry-wide conversations, Interswitch aims to drive AI-powered innovation that will propel Nigeria’s digital economy forward.

As a pioneer in Africa’s fintech space, Interswitch remains dedicated to championing initiatives that harness technology’s transformative potential to unlock new opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and elevate user experiences.

As the conversation around AI continues to gain momentum, Interswitch remains fully invested in shaping its future and accelerating its integration into Africa’s dynamic digital landscape.