To say that Lagos State is primed to become the next Silicon Valley is certainly stating the obvious. A first time visitor to the famous Computer Village in Ikeja and Ebute Metta, and Herbert Macaulay Way, in Yaba and its environs, all within Lagos mainland, would not just be amazed but more than convinced that these neighbourhoods sure have something to cheer about as far as innovative technology and hitech ecosystem are concerned. These neighbourhoods, though sparsely populated areas, surely boast of raw talents, tech savvy nerds who can hold their own even on the world stage.
From available information, the state government has provided the wings to fly in terms of anchor and safe haven for many upcoming tech companies and, today, they have become the nation’s pride even across the continent of Africa. From Paga, Flutterwave to Moniepoint, and more, these companies literally cut their teeth in Lagos.
Welcome to Lagos State, the city of dreams and inspiration!
Little wonder the Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has given blessed assurances and promises of the future of innovative technology and hitech given the world of possibilities offered by the Centre of Excellence. At the two-day Africa Gaming Expo (AGE) at the Eko Hotels and Suites, which began on Tuesday, the governor said that the agenda is to become Africa’s leading fintech hub.
As a way of given his imprimatur of support, Sanwo-Olu said that his administration is actively working on policies and initiatives that will position Lagos as the leading hub for digital gaming, fintech solutions, and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven creative enterprises in Africa. He also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to fostering an environment where innovation thrives, responsible gaming is prioritised, and digital entrepreneurship flourishes. The event was attended by regulators, investors, stakeholders and gaming enthusiasts, within and outside Nigeria, particularly from African countries.
In his keynote address, the governor emphasised the significant potential for collaboration between gaming, fintech, entertainment, and AI in shaping the future of Africa’s digital economy. He therefore urged participants at the expo to tap into the world of gaming through the use of Artificial Intelligence for fraud detection, personalised gaming experiences, responsible gaming initiatives, and financial security.
Sanwo-Olu said: ‘Over the last decade, Africa’s gaming and fintech sectors have witnessed explosive growth, driven by increasing smartphone penetration, digital transactions, and a young, tech-savvy population. This evolution is not only transforming how we play and pay but also how we create and consume entertainment.
‘AI is at the forefront of this revolution, powering fraud detection, personalised gaming experiences, responsible gaming initiatives, and financial security. AI-driven tools are also enabling game developers, fintech innovators, and digital content creators to build more immersive and inclusive platforms that drive engagement and profitability.
‘Here in Lagos State, we recognise the immense potential of the synergy between gaming, fintech, entertainment, and AI. As a government, we are committed to fostering an ecosystem where innovation thrives, responsible gaming is prioritised, and digital entrepreneurship flourishes.
‘We are actively working on policies and initiatives that will position Lagos as the leading hub for digital gaming, fintech solutions, and AI-driven creative enterprises in Africa. Through progressive regulations, strategic investments, and digital infrastructure, we aim to create an environment where game developers, fintech startups, content creators, and AI pioneers can collaborate and scale their innovations globally.
‘The Africa Gaming Expo 2025 provides a vital platform for stakeholders, regulators, investors, and technology pioneers to engage in meaningful discussions on how AI can drive efficiency, security, and inclusivity across gaming, fintech, and entertainment. This is more than just an expo—it is a launchpad for ideas, partnerships, and innovations that will define the next phase of Africa’s digital transformation’.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Lottery and Gaming Authority, Mr. Bashir Are enumerated the benefits of the expo, saying AGE is an annual event for gaming regulators, operators, and the entire value chain to come together to deliberate and proffer solutions to issues affecting the industry.
He disclosed that over 500 delegates across the globe are currently participating in the event, themed, “Transforming the Gaming Sector with Artificial Intelligence and Fintech”.
It is instructive to note that anyone still doubting the potentials of Lagos as a fintech hub within the continent only needs to visit Ikeja and Yaba axis to have a change of opinion. An unlimited world of innovative technology and hitech at its finest awaits the visitor, all thanks to the zeal and commitment of Mr. Governor.
Since the inception of the Sanwo-Olu administration in 2019, he has left no one in doubt about his commitment to the socioeconomic growth and development of the state. And that is why he spares no efforts at all as far as making the state liveable for all.
Working with T. H. E. M. E. S+ agenda, a template initiated by his administration, and which has continued to guide its action plans, this has led to lots of development strides in different areas of governance and Lagosians have been the better for it.
With the pace and the focus of the Sanwo-Olu administration, many more of good news are to come.
