NITDA inaugurates committee for GITEX tourism, tech exhibition
By Blessing Emmanuel
Nigeria is set to make history as it prepares to host the globally renowned Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX) for the first time, a move driven by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) to position the country as a key player in the global tech ecosystem and digital tourism landscape.
The announcement was made during the inauguration of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) at NITDA’s headquarters in Abuja, marking the start of preparations for what is expected to be a landmark event in Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.
Organised in partnership with KAOUN International, the maiden edition of GITEX Nigeria will take place between September 1 and 4, 2025, in Abuja and Lagos. With the theme “Forging the Rise of Digital Nigeria,” the event aims to host over 1,000 startups, 100+ investors, and at least 20,000 participants from across the world.
GITEX Nigeria will serve as a platform for innovation exchange, strategic collaboration, and economic growth through technology. While the Abuja event will feature a Government Leadership and AI Summit focused on digital infrastructure and public sector transformation, the Lagos edition will showcase the vibrant Nigerian tech ecosystem and attract international investors.
Speaking at the event, the Director General of NITDA, Mr. Kashifu Inuwa, represented by Director of the ITIS Department, Mr. Olawumi Oladejo highlighted the significance of hosting such a global event in Nigeria.
He stated that beyond elevating Nigeria’s international reputation, GITEX would boost local business visibility, enhance tourism, and serve as a major avenue for forging innovation-driven partnerships.
“This event is a major step in implementing our Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (2024–2027), particularly in fostering strategic partnerships. It will not only spotlight our local startups but also boost the tourism and business sectors by attracting a global audience,” he said.
Inuwa also noted that the initiative is in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 8-point agenda, assuring stakeholders that the event enjoys full presidential backing.
He stressed that successfully hosting GITEX would position Nigeria as a regional leader in digital transformation.
Providing further insight into the vision for the event, NITDA’s Director of Stakeholder Management and Partnerships, Dr. Aristotle Onumo said the goal is to scale six Nigerian startups to global competitiveness within three years.
He added that the event would focus on growth in strategic sectors such as Telecom, Fintech, Agritech, Edtech, e-Commerce, Healthtech, and data centres.
He also revealed that 78 per cent of participating startups expect to secure funding from investors at GITEX, highlighting the economic opportunities the exhibition will unlock for Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.
