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Mohammedia – Held across the Eko Hotel Convention Centre and Landmark Center, day three of GITEX Nigeria 2025 in Lagos offered a glimpse into Africa’s technological future.
Yesterday, Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, set the tone by urging African nations to unite behind a common AI policy.
According to Tijani, the continent cannot afford fragmented approaches to AI infrastructure and governance, stressing that unity is essential if Africa is to fulfill its potential in the global digital economy.
Nigeria’s continental AI strategy
The Nigerian government also used the platform to push discussions around a continental AI strategy, on day two. Policymakers and experts stressed the need for collaborative infrastructure, ethical frameworks, and inclusive regulations to ensure African nations collectively benefit from AI rather than face widening development gaps.
Cybersecurity in focus
With Africa facing a surge in cybercrime and data breaches, cybersecurity emerged as another key of yesterday’s themes. Industry experts, including representatives from Kaspersky, led workshops and discussions aimed at strengthening both corporate and government defenses.
The sessions emphasized the importance of proactive strategies to tackle phishing, ransomware, and supply-chain attacks that continue to escalate across the region.
Corporate players showcase solutions
Beyond pitches and panels, global technology companies also made their mark. German firm STULZ unveiled new infrastructure solutions, including precision air-conditioning and liquid-cooling systems designed for African data centers.
These technologies are seen as critical for supporting the continent’s rapid digital expansion while addressing persistent challenges in energy and power continuity.
Supernova semi-finals
The Supernova challenge, a flagship competition for GITEX Nigeria, held its semi-final round today. Startups from across Africa pitched in categories including Artificial Intelligence, Digital Finance, Agritech, Healthtech, Edtech, and the Creative Economy.
With a prize purse of over $10,000, the semi-finale saw fierce competition as innovators vied for recognition and funding. The two finalists will advance to tomorrow’s grand finale, where the best startup will be announced.
The Lagos Tech Expo and Startup Festival
Day two also marked the official opening of GITEX Nigeria’s twin venues: the Tech Expo at Eko Hotel Convention Centre and the Startup Festival at Landmark Centre.
International exhibitors joined local innovators to showcase breakthroughs in fintech, healthtech, green energy, and smart city solutions.
With Lagos positioning itself as an emerging hub for Africa’s digital future, the event elevated the city’s potential to attract global investment and talent.
Looking ahead: the final day
As day three wraps up, attention is shifting to tomorrow’s grand finale of the Supernova Challenge, where top startups will compete for the coveted prize.
Day four will also feature panels on emerging technologies such as blockchain and clean energy, alongside investor networking sessions designed to boost Africa’s startup funding landscape.
GITEX Nigeria 2025 is proving to be more than just another trade fair. It blends government initiatives, cutting-edge corporate showcases, and grassroots innovation to cement its place as one of the most influential tech gatherings on the continent this year, following the larger GITEX Africa Morocco which took place in Marrakesh this past May.
Read Also: Nigeria Leverages GITEX to Accelerate Tech-Driven Growth, Policy Reform
