In a move set to boost the country’s tech sector, the Federal Government, through NITDA, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to host the world’s largest technology fair, GITEX, for the first time, in 2025.
The agreement was signed on behalf of the federal government by the Director-General and CEO of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, and CEO of KAOUN International and Executive Vice President of Dubai World Trade Centre, the organisers of GITEX, Trixie LohMirmand.
Speaking on the significance of signing the MOU, Inuwa said: “Bringing GITEX to Nigeria will introduce the experience of the best tech conference to our country.”
He further emphasised that this strategic initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Agenda to reform the economy to deliver a sustained growth. “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,” said Inuwa.
The NITDA Boss recognises that in today’s interconnected world, no country can thrive in isolation. Economic prosperity is increasingly tied to the ability to engage with global markets and integrate into the international trade ecosystem.
In line with this vision, President Tinubu has given a clear mandate to MDAs to actively facilitate and support initiatives that contribute to economic diversification in line with this administration’s redefined priority areas. This includes fostering the development of new industries, promoting innovation, and creating an environment conducive to technological advancement.
“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,” he added.
Trixie LohMirmand expressed her excitement about the partnership, citing the impressive track record of Nigerian teams at GITEX pitch competitions. She said Nigeria has positioned itself as the fastest-growing country for developers in Africa, with vast potential for untapped talent.
“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,” she said.
While a date for GITEX Nigeria has not been announced yet, this agreement marks a significant step forward in positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global tech scene and affirming President Tinubu’s strong stance on economic diversification and international trade integration to drive a comprehensive strategy to transform Nigeria’s economy.
