By Chika Okeke
President Bola Tinubu has backed the GITEX NIGERIA to unveil its economic blueprint for Africa’s financial inclusion, amplified by a projected US$1.5 trillion digital payments economy by 2030.
This will be revealed through a new platform, FDX by GITEX, designed to modernise critical infrastructure, accelerate financial inclusion, and connect capital, policy, and digital innovation to expand access and opportunity across Africa.
GITEX NIGERIA is West Africa’s largest technology and startup event, bringing together global technology leaders, government policymakers, investors, startups and enterprise decision-makers to accelerate digital transformation across Africa’s largest economy.
The largest technology, Artificial Intelligence, AI, and startup show, is scheduled to be held in Abuja and Lagos from August to September 2026.
Supported by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA, the upcoming second edition is endorsed by the Lagos State Government and organised by KAOUN International, the global organiser of GITEX events.
Deputy Governor of Lagos State, H.E. Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat stated that Lagos is committed to building a modern and tech-driven financial ecosystem that captures everybody.
“As the commercial and innovation engine of West Africa, Lagos is committed to building a modern, tech-driven financial ecosystem that leaves no one behind. FDX at GITEX NIGERIA represents a pivotal platform to shape forward-looking policy and accelerate bold financial innovations.
“By aligning future banking and finance policy with cutting-edge digital infrastructure, we can deepen financial inclusion, unlock seamless cross-border trade, and catalyse sustainable economic value.
“Forward-thinking financial policies shall empower the entrepreneurial ambitions of Lagosians and drive the digital transformation of Nigeria’s US$1 trillion economy ambition,” he said.
Ahead of his keynote address, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Ministry of Finance Incorporated, MOFI, Nigeria, Dr Armstrong Ume Takang stated that unlocking Nigeria’s US$1 trillion economic ambition requires moving beyond policy intent to the effective mobilisation of institutional capital.
He added: “At MOFI, we aim to professionalise the management of government-owned assets while pursuing a long-term vision to build a ₦100 trillion portfolio that can catalyse investment, strengthen strategic sectors, and create sustainable national value.
“FDX at GITEX NIGERIA provides a timely platform to connect policymakers, investors, and innovators, advancing the partnerships needed to accelerate economic transformation and position Nigeria as a leading financial and investment hub.”
International experts will also address the defining priorities shaping finance in emerging markets – from trust, compliance, and institutional entry- to borderless payments, digital identity, financial inclusion, and policy coordination.
Ahead of the event, one of the panelists, Amadiegwu said that as Africa advances towards a more inclusive digital financial future, the intelligent use of AI, automation, modern infrastructure, and technological integration will be critical to building agile, secure, resilient, and compliant-by-design ecosystems.
“This is why FDX at GITEX NIGERIA is so significant. It brings global stakeholders together to accelerate Africa’s transition from legacy platforms to modern, globally aligned standards, combining innovation with trust, security, resilience, and regulatory compliance.
“Ultimately, the goal is not technology for technology’s sake, but ensuring that next-generation finance creates sustainable value and delivers greater access and opportunity to people and businesses across Africa,” he added.
Other participants include Mastercard, a trusted technology partner, presenting intelligent solutions to address long-standing cross-border payment friction and expand financial access for underbanked communities in Africa for more than 50 years.
Mastercard will also exhibit hardware-lite solutions driving digital payment acceptance, including Tap on Phone, QR-on-Card, and Pay by Link.
Country Manager, West Africa at Mastercard, Dr Folasade Femi-Lawal said: “Nigeria is one of Africa’s most dynamic technology and innovation ecosystems, and GITEX NIGERIA is an important platform for bringing together public and private sector leaders to shape the future of digital transformation across the region.
“Shared ambition, trusted technology, secure digital infrastructure, and strong strategic collaboration are essential to unlocking inclusive growth for businesses, communities, and the broader economy.”
Flagship banking and digital finance exhibitors at GITEX NIGERIA also include BMONI, Edge Penny, GOSAR, Monica Technologies, Moove Payment, Raenest Technology Services, and Softgem.
