Lagos, Nigeria, October 17, 2023 – Nigerian startups are making a significant impact at GITEX GLOBAL 2023, the world’s largest tech event.
The West African nation is well-represented by a robust delegation from both the public and private sectors. This presence is a testament to the innovation and potential that Nigerian startups bring to the global tech landscape.
Highlighting Innovation
Several innovative Nigerian companies have seized the opportunity to exhibit their groundbreaking products and services to a global audience. One standout is Touch and Pay Technologies Ltd (TAP), a Nigerian fintech startup. In just three years, TAP has established itself as a category leader in microtransaction payments across Africa, boasting over 3 million users and nearly 500,000 daily users. Their success underscores the dynamism and adaptability of the Nigerian tech ecosystem.
Another noteworthy entrant is Nearpays, the winner of the fintech and blockchain category of the Supernova Challenge at Gitex Africa, held in Morocco earlier this year. Nearpays is revolutionizing online payments with its commitment to seamlessness. They have devised a solution that empowers users with control over point-of-sale transactions, providing an exceptional user experience.
Insight from Industry Leaders
Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President of Event Services Management at Dubai World Trade Centre, shared her insights into the prevailing themes at GITEX Global 2023. She emphasized that this year is marked by a growing focus on artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and deep tech. These are pivotal areas shaping the global tech landscape, and the discussions around them are creating ripples in the industry.
Furthermore, this year’s GITEX Global aims to bring the global tech ecosystem closer together, fostering collaborative ventures and encouraging public and private sector partnerships. The active involvement of Nigerian startups in this initiative is an affirmation of the country’s commitment to fostering international cooperation.
Nigeria’s Tech Ecosystem and Representation
Thanks to a flourishing tech ecosystem and supportive government policies, Nigerian startups are poised for continued growth. GITEX GLOBAL 2023 sees Nigeria represented by a delegation that includes Lagos State, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Bank of Industry, NIPEX (NNPC), and private companies, such as the Uniccon Group of Companies. The Lagos delegation is headed by Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, with the active participation of the Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, Olatunbosun Alake.
Nigeria’s prominence at GITEX GLOBAL 2023 is a testament to the country’s emergence as a major player in the global tech arena. Its startups are not only showcasing a diverse array of products and services but also forming essential partnerships with companies and investors from across the world.