Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian
The 6th edition of the highly anticipated Art of Technology (AOT) Lagos conference, hosted by the Eko Innovation Centre in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, recently took place at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Under the theme “The AI Revolution: Transforming Lagos into Africa’s Digital Powerhouse,” the event gathered thought leaders in technology, policy, and enterprise to discuss the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of Lagos and the African continent.
Lagos: A Hub for Innovation and Growth
In his keynote address, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, highlighted Lagos State’s strategic focus on fostering innovation. He emphasized that deliberate policies and investments have positioned the state as a global tech leader, enabling Lagos-based startups to attract over $1.2 billion in funding—75% of Nigeria’s total startup investments in 2023.
“Through deliberate policies and investments, we have created an environment that fosters innovation and positions Lagos as a global player in the tech value chain. The ingenuity of our people and our commitment to innovation have brought us this far, but we must continue building on this foundation,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
AI: The Next Frontier
Terrens Wu, Managing Director of Huawei Enterprise Business Group, delivered a keynote highlighting the three growth waves in technology: informatization, digital transformation with 5G and cloud, and the emerging era of comprehensive intelligence. He noted the surging demand for AI computing power, emphasizing the importance of building efficient AI-native cloud infrastructures to meet this demand.
Commitment to Digital Leadership
Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, Tubosun Alake, reiterated the state’s vision to be a global leader in digital transformation. Similarly, Victor Afolabi, Curator of AOT Lagos and Founder of the Eko Innovation Centre, underscored the city’s position as the gateway to Africa’s digital economy, emphasizing the critical role of AI in this transformation.
Key Sessions and Discussions
The conference featured three main plenary sessions:
- “The AI Revolution: Transforming Lagos into Africa’s Digital Powerhouse”
Moderated by Seyi Akindeinde, Founder of Hyperspace Technologies, the panel featured notable speakers, including:- Dr. Obadare Peter Adewale, Chief Visionary Officer at Digital Encode
- Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Deputy Governor of Lagos State
- Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, Co-founder of Flutterwave and Andela
- Dr. Vincent O. Olatunji, National Commissioner, Nigeria Data Protection Commission
- Gbemisola Aruwayo-Obe, Country General Manager for IBM West Africa
- “Beyond the Hype: Preparing Africa’s Infrastructure and Workforce for the Rise of AI”
This session, moderated by Feyisayo Alayande of the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, addressed Africa’s readiness for AI adoption. Panelists, including Olugbolahan Olusanya (TeKnowledge), Femi Osinubi (PwC), and Sade Dada (Meta), emphasized the need for strategic investments in infrastructure, education, and cross-sector collaboration. - “Stay Woke: Balancing Data, Privacy, and Ethics in Nigeria’s Digital Hustle”
Moderated by Omoruyi Edoigiawerie, this session tackled ethical considerations in AI. Panelists such as Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji (Rise Networks) and Dr. Bayo Adekanmbi (Data Science Nigeria) stressed the importance of transparency, accountability, and ethical safeguards in AI adoption.
Breakout Sessions and Networking
The event also featured breakout sessions exploring topics like:
- “AI in Nigeria’s Workforce: Job Creator or Job Disruptor?”
- “AI for Social Good: Addressing Lagos’ Pressing Social Issues.”
These sessions offered participants hands-on insights, actionable strategies, and networking opportunities, fostering collaboration across industries.
Closing Remarks
Engr. Ibilola Kasunmu, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, closed the event with a heartfelt vote of thanks to stakeholders, sponsors, and participants. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to leveraging innovation and technology to enhance citizens’ lives.
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