In a significant move set to bolster Nigeria’s rapidly growing digital economy, tech company MTN has been confirmed as a key partner for the inaugural GITEX Nigeria event. The prestigious tech summit, scheduled to premiere in Abuja and Lagos from September 1 to 4, 2025, at 9 AM to 6 PM is poised to be West Africa’s largest gathering of technology visionaries, industry leaders, and policymakers.
Held under the patronage of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the event is organised by KAOUN International with support from Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). The partnership underscores MTN’s commitment to advancing the country’s technological landscape and supporting the government’s ambition of building a US$1 trillion digital economy by 2030.
Nigeria has one of the highest AI adoption rates globally, with 70% of respondents reporting usage, significantly higher than the global average of 48%. This demonstrates a strong local appetite for new technologies. This is underscored by the fact that Nigeria’s AI market is projected to reach $1.4 billion by the end of 2025, and AI-focused startups have already collectively raised over $120 million in funding between 2022 and 2024.
The GITEX Nigeria program will kick off in Abuja on September 1 with a high-level Government Leadership & AI Summit. This segment will bring together top government officials and tech executives to discuss the future of digital infrastructure, AI adoption, and innovation. MTN’s involvement highlights its role in providing the crucial digital backbone necessary for these advancements, focusing on co-creating technologies that empower industries and communities.
Following the Abuja summit, the event will transition to Lagos from September 3 to 4. The Lagos leg will host the GITEX Nigeria Tech Expo, the Future Economy Conference, and the GITEX Nigeria Startup Festival, creating a powerful platform for networking, collaboration, and investment. With over 1,000 startups and 300 investors expected to participate, the event is designed to spotlight Nigeria’s vibrant tech ecosystem and attract global capital.
Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer, MTN Nigeria, said: “At MTN, we believe in holistic collaborations that drive interconnectivity and deliver meaningful, mutually beneficial impact. Our partnership with GITEX aligns with our shared value initiative and our commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital future. We are proud to proactively facilitate immersive experiences that inspire trust and ignite innovation. As the inaugural GITEX NIGERIA draws near, we are enthused by the prospect of embarking on influential new collaborations in 5G, AI, and cybersecurity, catalyzing digital transformation across a nation poised to lead Africa’s digital ascension globally.”
By partnering with GITEX, MTN, and other global firms like IBM and Meta is helping to position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s digital improvement. The event is a strategic opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its innovative talent and bold ideas to the world, reinforcing its status as a major technology hub.
