SHALOM OLALEYE
Nigeria is set to host the world’s largest technology expo, GITEX, for the first time in 2025, marking a significant milestone for the country’s burgeoning tech sector.
The Federal Government, through the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to bring GITEX to Nigeria. Kashifu Inuwa, Director General NITDA, and Trixie LohMirmand, CEO, KAOUN International, the organisers of GITEX, formalized the agreement.
“Bringing GITEX to Nigeria will introduce the experience of the best tech conference to our country,” said Inuwa.
The NITDA Chief highlighted the strategic importance of hosting GITEX, stating,
“President Tinubu is big and loud on trade and economic diversification, and you cannot trade in isolation. The President has mandated us to facilitate parts of this diversification.”
“The President’s directive is clear: we must build bridges with the rest of the world and leverage these connections to boost our economic growth. Through initiatives like GITEX Nigeria, we are creating platforms for our tech ecosystem to shine, demonstrating that Nigeria is not only open for business but is also a hub of innovation and creativity,”
Inuwa added.
Trixie LohMirmand expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, praising Nigeria’s impressive track record in GITEX pitch competitions. She noted that Nigeria has established itself as the fastest-growing country for developers in Africa, with significant untapped potential.
“By bringing GITEX to Nigeria, we aim to explore the country’s potential in sectors like AI, digital health, and fintech. The initiative aims to not only showcase local advancements but also integrate the Nigerian tech scene with the wider GITEX network, providing Nigerian startups with a platform to connect with new markets,” LohMirmand stated.
Although the exact date for GITEX Nigeria has not yet been announced, this agreement signifies a pivotal step in positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global tech landscape, reinforcing President Tinubu’s commitment to economic diversification and international trade integration.