AI in Nigeria, the convener of the InnovateAI Conference, has announced that the 2026 edition will focus on governance, ethics, security, and digital literacy in the deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The announcement was made in Lagos on Monday by Mr. Ehia Erhaboh, Co-Convener of AI in Nigeria, who explained that the upcoming conference would provide a platform to address the risks posed by AI while laying out a responsible framework for its adoption.
“The 2026 edition represents a crucial evolution from our previous conferences. We are moving the conversation beyond adoption toward responsible and sustainable use of AI,” Erhaboh said.
According to him, the pace at which AI is reshaping industries, economies, and societies demands a balance between innovation and trust. “Innovation without governance risks leaving people behind,” he added.
Themed “Responsible AI Beyond Innovation,” the conference is expected to be a defining moment in Nigeria’s technological journey. Erhaboh emphasized that the event would highlight how Africa could define its own AI future — one rooted in ethics, inclusivity, and safety.
He revealed that InnovateAI 2026 would feature sessions on AI governance in Africa, aiming to establish frameworks that build public trust. Another priority area will be the growing risks of deepfakes, fraud, and security threats from misuse of AI tools in the digital space.
“As organisers, we are particularly concerned about the impact of these emerging risks on Nigeria’s digital society and financial services. Discussions will also cover how to strengthen safeguards for secure digital transactions and combat fraud in financial systems,” Erhaboh noted.
Recalling past successes, he said the inaugural InnovateAI 2024 conference, themed “Adapting AI for Nigeria,” successfully sparked critical policy discussions and drew over 4,000 participants. The 2025 edition expanded to more than 6,000 participants, with active hubs across the six geopolitical zones.
Similarly, Mr. Dotun Adeoye, also a Co-Convener of AI in Nigeria, stressed that digital literacy and inclusion would be at the heart of the 2026 agenda.
“Preparing citizens with digital skills is crucial to ensuring Nigerians are not left behind in the AI age. Sessions will explore how responsible innovation can balance safety with growth, while also supporting Africa’s startup ecosystem,” Adeoye said.
He added that the organisers were inviting organisations to partner and sponsor the event, noting that the support of stakeholders would be vital in building a fair, secure, and prosperous AI ecosystem for Nigeria and the continent.
“This is not just another conference. It is a catalyst for shaping Africa’s digital future,” he said.
Adeoye also highlighted how discussions would cover the use of AI to foster inclusion, enhance healthcare delivery, and support smarter governance systems.
The conveners confirmed that InnovateAI 2026 will take place in Lagos, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, technology experts, and the public for high-level engagement on responsible AI adoption in Africa.
Newsmen report that AI in Nigeria is a collective of visionary leaders and technology enthusiasts dedicated to positioning Nigeria at the forefront of the global AI revolution.