Nigeria is gearing up to host the prestigious Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX) in 2025, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s quest to establish itself as a leading global tech hub. In a historic partnership, the Federal Government, through the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has teamed up with KAOUN International to bring this renowned event to Nigerian soil.
The announcement was made during the inauguration of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) at NITDA’s headquarters in Abuja, highlighting a strong, unified commitment from both public and private sectors. The committee’s formation underscores the importance of collaboration in bringing this world-class event to life.
Scheduled for September 1st to 4th, 2025, GITEX Nigeria will take place across two major cities, Abuja and Lagos, and is expected to attract over 20,000 participants, including 1,000 startups and 100 investors from around the world. The theme for the inaugural edition is “Forging the Rise of Digital Nigeria,” a call to action for leveraging digital technology to drive Nigeria’s economic transformation.
The event will feature high-profile discussions and presentations, including a Government Leadership and AI Summit in Abuja. This summit will bring together top government officials and international tech leaders to discuss national initiatives such as digital infrastructure, AI adoption, and public sector innovation. In Lagos, the commercial capital, GITEX will focus on showcasing Nigeria’s vibrant tech ecosystem, spotlighting local startups, and attracting investment to accelerate economic diversification.
Kashifu Inuwa, Director General of NITDA, emphasized the monumental impact of hosting such a high-caliber event. Speaking on his behalf, Mr. Olawumi Oladejo, Director of the ITIS Department, expressed excitement about the opportunities GITEX will create. He highlighted that the event would not only boost Nigeria’s international profile but also strengthen local businesses and stimulate tourism.
“We know the tremendous benefits this event will bring — enhancing our global standing, scaling local businesses, and boosting tourism,” Oladejo said, adding that it aligns with NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2024–2027), particularly in the areas of strategic partnerships and collaborations.
The DG also pointed out that GITEX’s expansion into West Africa will mark a significant milestone for Nigeria, as it follows the event’s successful models in North Africa, particularly Morocco. He assured stakeholders of full Presidential support, stating that hosting GITEX would position Nigeria as a leader in digital transformation across the African continent.
Dr. Aristotle Onumo, Director of Stakeholder Management and Partnerships at NITDA, provided insight into the vision for the event, revealing ambitious goals such as elevating six local startups to global prominence within the next three years. The event’s focus will span key sectors including Fintech, Agritech, Edtech, Telecom, e-Commerce, Healthtech, and data sovereignty, with the goal of fostering innovation, knowledge exchange, and investment.
He also shared the event’s expected outcomes, noting that 78% of participating startups are hopeful they will secure funding from investors attending the event. The tech ecosystem in Nigeria is poised to benefit significantly from the exposure and opportunities GITEX will offer.
As the countdown begins for GITEX Nigeria 2025, the event promises to be a catalyst for growth and innovation, positioning Nigeria at the forefront of Africa’s digital future.
