As local and international guests descended on the nation’s commercial and innovation capital for a potentially future-defining two days, anticipation was high for the conversations shaping Africa’s digital trajectory.

From Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State, the message on Wednesday was emphatic: Lagos is ‘a launchpad for Africa’s tomorrow’ – ready to propel Nigeria’s quest for a data-driven government and digitally empowered population. 

Held under the patronage of Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, GITEX NIGERIA takes place across Abuja and Lagos from 1-4 September.

Supported by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the event is endorsed by Lagos State Government and organised by KAOUN International, global producer of GITEX events.

Elaborating on Lagos’s digital economy leadership credentials and quest to harness technological capabilities for the betterment of regional society, H.E. Babajide Sanwo-Olu stated: “Lagos is not just a city for today – it is Africa’s innovation nerve centre and a launchpad for Africa’s tomorrow. At the heart of our efforts to unlock digital transformation possibilities is an unshakeable belief that governance in the 21st century must be digital, inclusive, and data-driven.

“As Peter Drucker once said, ‘The best way to predict the future is to create it’. Here in Lagos, we are creating that future, building a data-driven government where policy decisions respond to real-time insights and inclusive connectivity empowers every citizen in one of the world’s most vibrant tech ecosystems.”

Over two action-packed days, Nigeria’s commercial capital and innovation hub hosts dual showcases across the city: the GITEX NIGERIA Tech Expo & Future Economy Conference at the Eko Hotel Convention Centre, and the GITEX NIGERIA Startup Festival at the Landmark Centre.

Together, these platforms spotlight the immense digital potential of Lagos and the nation – enabling non-tech sectors to accelerate digitalisation roadmaps through enterprise-grade solutions while highlighting a burgeoning startup ecosystem, strong investor confidence, and valuable public-private partnership opportunities. 

Addressing GITEX NIGERIA attendees, Hon. Minister Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, emphasised the essential nature of sustained digital economy development, insisting: “The digital economy is not just about mobile apps or platforms; it is about technical efficiency and delivering productivity gains that transform entire sectors. This is why His Excellency President Bola Tinubu GCFR has placed the digital economy at the heart of the Renewed Hope agenda.

“His vision is very clear – that technology must not only grow GDP but also expand opportunities, reduce inequality, and create shared prosperity for all Nigerians. Under the President’s leadership, Nigeria has embraced the digital economy as a key driver of inclusive growth. We are not building just for elites; we are building for every Nigerian.”

Between 2019 and 2024, Lagos attracted over US$6 billion in foreign tech investment, cementing its position as the epicentre of Africa’s digital growth. The state today hosts hyperscale data centres and extensive fibre connectivity, accounting for more than 70% of Nigeria’s total tech inflows. Already Nigeria’s undisputed innovation hub, Lagos is also home to 23 of the country’s 28 fastest-growing companies, according to the Financial Times. 

Reflecting on the significance of GITEX NIGERIA making its way to Lagos, Kashifu Abdullahi, Director-General/CEO of NITDA, said: “The energy is palpable, and the potential is boundless. Nigeria and Lagos in particular are a crucible of innovation, where raw talent meets the unshakeable will to succeed, a factory of unicorns.

“Lagos is the place where people use talent and come up with solutions without infrastructure. In other places, they use capital infrastructure to fuel innovation, while here, we use our resilience. Because we have no options, and we need to create the solutions. We are ready for it. As a nation, our vision is clear.”

GITEX NIGERIA is West Africa’s largest gathering of technology visionaries, industry leaders, and decision-makers overseeing digital transformation of non-tech sectors. The event also presents Nigeria’s largest and most globally diverse investor programme, facilitating concierge meetings between startups, investors, corporates, industry leaders, and prospective partners.

Discussing the unique value proposition that Lagos presents businesses, Trixie LohMirmand, EVP of Dubai World Trade Centre and CEO of KAOUN International, organisers of GITEX NIGERIA, said: “Lagos is a mega high-speed technology testbed that is dense, diverse, and demanding, where SMEs, startups, and entrepreneurs succeed not by conventional rules but by distinctiveness and necessity-driven innovation.

“Rising above power outages, currency fluctuations, and maturing infrastructure, they scale faster and endure longer. Survive and thrive in Lagos, and your products and solutions can compete and flourish anywhere around the world.”

The event runs with support from partners AWS, Cisco, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Kaspersky, Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy; Federal Ministry of Youth Development, and Space42. 

For more information, news and updates on GITEX NIGERIA, please visit the website.

He said that Jumia has earned its place as a major brand, with its growth and trajectory in the country’s e-commerce ecosystem over the years which, he said, has made it a household name. He urged the company to not only strive to maintain its excellent service standards, but to also work towards improving them.

The Governor who was speaking during a courtesy visit by the management of Jumia Nigeria to the State House in Marina on Thursday March 27, reaffirmed the strategic importance of the company in the economic development of Lagos State and Nigeria, especially in job creation. He restated his administration’s commitment in ensuring that Lagos State remains environmentally friendly for businesses to grow.

“Our administration has always prioritized creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. Through various initiatives, we have strengthened the ease of doing business, and fostered innovation to drive economic growth, and we will continue to support businesses and create opportunities that will aid in their growth”, Sanwo-Olu said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said that the Lagos State Government remains open to collaborations with the private sector to enhance service delivery, infrastructure development, and create opportunities for residents, with the aim of building a resilient and sustainable future. He said the administration recognises the importance of working with the private sector to achieve its goals of improving the lives of its citizens.

Speaking also, the Chief Executive Officer of Jumia Nigeria, Sunil Natraj, thanked the governor for creating an enabling environment in the state for businesses like Jumia to grow. He stated Jumia’s commitment to contributing towards the growth and development of the state, and the country.

Natraj said the company has made tremendous strides from its early days as a tech start-up in Lagos and has grown to become the number one e-commerce platform in Nigeria, with a presence in nine African countries.

He said the company presently employs hundreds of Nigerians directly, and thousands more indirectly as independent sales agents and partners.

He restated Jumia Nigeria’s commitment to providing excellent service, focusing on delivering exceptional value and fostering long-term relationships with its customers around the country. Among other things, he said the company is actively working to enhance customer experience, aiming to simplify the e-commerce process, making it easier for customers to navigate and shop online.

According to him, Jumia aims to transform everyday life in Africa by making it easier for consumers to access goods and services conveniently and affordably, adding that the company is focused on expanding access to retail across the country.

He made the pledge during his address as the special guest of honour at the NYSC Passing-Out Parade/Closing Ceremony for the 2024 Batch ‘B’ Stream I Corps Members, held at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Iyana Ipaja on Tuesday.

Governor Sanwolu also announced a farewell gift of N100,000 for each Corps member departing the camp and a sum of N100 million for the NYSC support staff.

According to him, “This year alone I will be making available a total of 5bn that will be used to start the full development of the permanent site for NYSC.

“For this batch, we have 4254, and with all sense of responsibility and because you have been very hardworking, each one of you will go home with N100,000, the money will be made available in your accounts by next week and your directors will credit your account.”

Under his leadership, the state has witnessed significant strides in various tech-related initiatives, signalling a dedication to leveraging technology for growth and progress.

As Governor Sanwo-Olu embarks on his second term in office, there are opportunities to further build on the existing momentum and drive even greater innovation and transformation in the tech sector.

Here’s a look at the administration’s achievements to date and recommendations for enhancing its tech agenda.

Lagos State Smart City Initiative: Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration has set in motion plans to transform Lagos into a hub for technological innovation through the Smart City Initiative.

This ambitious plan involves leveraging technology to enhance infrastructure, transportation systems, and public services, to create a dynamic and sustainable Smart City model.

As the administration moves forward, it should focus on fostering public-private partnerships to attract investment in cutting-edge technologies and sustainable urban development solutions, laying the groundwork for a truly smart and resilient city.

Support for Tech Hubs and Innovation Centres: The government has actively supported the development of tech hubs and innovation centres across the state, providing vital support for startups and tech entrepreneurs.

To build on this, the administration can expand its efforts by facilitating access to funding, mentorship, and resources for budding tech innovators.

Moreover, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government can further catalyse innovation and entrepreneurship, positioning Lagos as a thriving tech ecosystem.

Digital Infrastructure and Internet Connectivity: The administration’s focus on improving internet connectivity and digital infrastructure is crucial for driving technology-driven innovation and economic growth.

As Lagos continues to expand, the government should prioritize the establishment of reliable, high-speed internet access throughout the state, particularly in underserved communities, to ensure broader digital inclusion and equal access to opportunities.

E-Governance Initiatives: Digitizing government services and processes is key to enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accessibility in governance.

As Governor Sanwo-Olu enters his second term, the administration should streamline e-governance initiatives, ensuring the seamless integration of digital platforms for citizen-centric services and data-driven decision-making.

Furthermore, the implementation of blockchain technology and data analytics can enhance the security and efficiency of government operations, contributing to improved governance outcomes.

Technology Education and Digital Skills Training:

The administration has made strides in technology education and digital skills training programs to empower the youth to participate in the digital economy.

Moving forward, there is an opportunity to further expand these initiatives and align them with industry needs, ensuring that young talents are equipped with relevant and future-ready skills. Fostering partnerships with tech firms and educational institutions can help create a robust talent pipeline and bridge the skills gap in the tech sector.

Looking ahead to his second term, Governor Sanwo-Olu has the opportunity to continue shaping the future of Lagos State as a leading tech-driven economy.

By building on the achievements to date and embracing the recommendations outlined, the administration can further solidify Lagos’ position as a strategic player in the global technology ecosystem and create a thriving environment for innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive digital growth.

As Governor Sanwo-Olu begins his second term as Governor of Lagos State, it is imperative to emphasize enhanced collaboration with the private sector in driving technology and innovation.

Building strategic partnerships with tech companies and investors can accelerate the implementation of tech-driven projects and attract foreign direct investment in the sector.

Additionally, the establishment of a dedicated government tech fund can provide financial support for tech startups, research and development, and the implementation of cutting-edge solutions.

Furthermore, Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration has made significant progress in leveraging Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to enhance land management within Lagos State.

The implementation of GIS technology has played a pivotal role in improving land administration, property documentation, and urban planning.

This has resulted in increased transparency, efficiency, and accuracy in land matters, benefiting both the government and the citizens of Lagos State.

Through the integration of GIS, the government has been able to digitally map and visualize land parcels, leading to better land-use planning and management.

This has contributed to the prevention of land disputes, improved infrastructure development, and sustainable urban growth. Moreover, the use of GIS has facilitated property tax assessments and land valuation, thereby enhancing revenue generation for the state.

As technology continues to advance, there are opportunities for the government to further expand the application of GIS in land matters. For instance, incorporating advanced spatial analysis and remote sensing technologies can provide insights into environmental management, disaster risk reduction, and natural resource planning.

Additionally, the integration of GIS with e-governance initiatives can streamline land-related services, making them more accessible and user-friendly for the citizens of Lagos State.

As Governor Sanwo-Olu’s second term unfolds, it is critical to sustain and amplify the momentum of GIS integration in land management.

This can be achieved through continued investment in geospatial infrastructure, capacity building for government personnel, and the establishment of standardized data-sharing protocols.

By harnessing the power of GIS, the administration can further strengthen its efforts in ensuring sustainable and well-managed land resources, laying a solid foundation for the continued growth and development of Lagos State.

Furthermore, the government should prioritize the creation of a conducive regulatory environment to stimulate technological innovation.

Clear and supportive policies, streamlined licensing processes, and incentives for tech companies can attract more tech firms and foster a conducive environment for growth and development.

This will also involve the review and modernization of existing regulations to keep pace with technological advancements and emerging trends, ensuring that entrepreneurs and innovators can operate in a flexible and responsive business environment.

An important aspect of the tech agenda for Governor Sanwo-Olu’s second term involves a focus on sustainability and resilience.

Embracing green technology, renewable energy solutions, and initiatives to mitigate the impact of climate change can position Lagos as a sustainable and forward-thinking tech hub.

This can include incentives for eco-friendly tech solutions, support for research and development in clean energy, and the integration of smart environmental monitoring systems.

Such initiatives can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious tech ecosystem while addressing critical challenges faced by the rapidly growing urban centre.

In conclusion, Governor Sanwo-Olu has the opportunity to further cement Lagos State’s position as a tech-driven economic powerhouse and a beacon of innovation on the global stage.

By continuing to prioritize investment in tech infrastructure, support for startups and innovators, and the creation of a conducive business environment, the administration can propel Lagos to new heights of tech-driven growth and development in his second term.

With strategic partnerships, regulatory reform, and a focus on sustainability, the Governor can truly shape the future of Lagos State as a leading tech and innovation hub, driving economic prosperity and improving the quality of life for all residents.

The governor, at a ceremony held in the State House, Alausa, assented to the ‘Budget of Renew­al’ days after the House of Assem­bly passed the proposed expendi­ture bill and transmitted it to the executive arm for approval.

The state government is pri­oritising spending on infrastruc­ture, environment, education and technology, just as it significantly raised allocation to security and public safety.

Of the total budget, N1.315 tril­lion, representing 58 percent, is allocated for capital expenditure, while the recurrent spending gulped N952.4 billion, which rep­resents 42 percent of the budget.

After signing the Appropria­tion Bill into law, Sanwo-Olu said assured that the implementation of the budget would bring about new growth and improve quality of life for the state’s residents.

The governor disclosed that the budget was raised by N21.74 billion, which the Assembly ap­proved before the final ratifica­tion. The additional allocation, he said, is to ensure completion of key infrastructure and inject interventions into critical areas of priority as identified by the legislature.

He said:

“The success of this Appropriation Law will be deter­mined by how effective its imple­mentation will be in relation to the wellbeing of our citizens. This administration is firmly commit­ted to achieving the objectives and deliverables that have been set out in the budget. We believe this bud­get will not only help to advance economic growth and sustainabil­ity, it will also transform the lives of the residents and businesses.

“All the objectives laid out in the Appropriation Law align with our THEMES+ agenda.

We, therefore, pledge to diligent­ly work towards the completion of a lot of our ongoing projects and successfully bring forth the Greater Lagos we have talked about. We underscore the ne­cessity of the collective respon­sibility to ensure the successful execution of this budget. The citizens must fulfil their civic obligation, as the effort to build the State is one that requires partnership.”

Sanwo-Olu pledged that the state government would uphold highest level of transparency and accountability in the implemen­tation of the budget, while prom­ising greatest benefits would be for greatest number of residents.

This fund, according to a statement by the State, is designated to alleviate the financial burdens faced by Lagosians pursuing higher education across the country.

Abdur-Rahman Lekki, the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Scholarship Board, unveiled this significant development during a recent meeting with key stakeholders in his office.

Mr. Lekki underscored Governor Sanwo-Olu’s unwavering commitment to advancing education within Lagos State.

The Governor’s vision is to make education accessible, affordable, and sustainable, which is evident through the timely disbursement of these funds.

He emphasized the government’s profound concern for the youth and their educational journey, and its pledge to provide accessible and affordable education, irrespective of the country’s economic challenges.

Breaking down the allocation, Abdur-Rahman Lekki detailed that N164,500,000.00 (One Hundred and Sixty-Four Million, Five Hundred and Thousand Naira) has been earmarked for the 2021/2022 Fresh Scholarship Award for Undergraduate, Masters & PhD (Batch B), 2021/2022 Subsequent Scholarship Award for Undergraduate & PhD, and 2022/2023 Subsequent Scholarship Award for Undergraduate & PhD recipients as well as the 2022/2023 Governor’s Discretionary Awards.

Furthermore, an allocation of N210,955,000.00 (Two Hundred and Ten Million, Nine Hundred and Fifty-Five Thousand Naira) has been approved for the 2021/2022 Fresh Bursary Award for Undergraduates and Law School (Batch B), 2021/2022 Subsequent Bursary Award for Undergraduates, and 2022/2023 Subsequent Bursary Award for Undergraduates.

Lekki reassured beneficiaries awaiting disbursement that the release of funds will be commence promptly as soon as the necessary administrative processes are concluded.

In addition, Mr. Lekki informed the public that applications for the Year 2022/2023 Fresh Scholarship and Bursary Awards have been successfully completed, with Academic and Indigenship Verification Processes set to commence. Students are encouraged to regularly check their emails for updates.

As part of Governor Sanwo-Olu’s “T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda,” the Lagos State Scholarship Board is set to introduce Special Categories of Scholarships, focusing on the Poor and Vulnerable, as well as People Living With Disabilities. This aligns with the intensified emphasis on Social Inclusion, Gender Equality, and Youth in the coming four years.

Lekki proudly noted that the Lagos State government has a long history of subsidizing education within the state, utilizing bursaries and scholarships to assist both indigenes and residents in achieving their educational aspirations. This tradition dates back to 1968 when the Board was first established.

The Lagos State Scholarship Board remains steadfast in its commitment to administering bursary and scholarship awards effectively, striving to make higher education accessible to all.

Babajide Sanwo-Olu made this known on Tuesday while addressing the workers at the state secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja.

“I have looked around and I know that as a country, there is pressure. I know that, as a country, there is a high level of inflation.

At our cabinet meeting, I instructed the head of service office and the ministry of staff, training, and pensions to start work on how we are going to increase the entire salary of our public servants,” the governor said.