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Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria, the country’s primary driver in promoting and advancing artificial intelligence, has today revealed the third installment of its premier annual conference,InnovateAI. The 2026 event will mark a pivotal point in the nation’s technological development, with the theme:“Responsible AI beyond Innovation.”

Building upon the achievements of its earlier versions, InnovateAI 2026 is set to influence the national dialogue regarding the essential topics of ethics, security, and regulation in artificial intelligence. The first edition of InnovateAI 2024, with the theme “Adapting AI for Nigeria,” effectively spurred policy conversations and drew more than 4,000 in-person participants, including AI creators, scholars, researchers, and decision-makers who participated in discussions between the public and private sectors on AI.

The 2025 conference, which recently came to a close, had the theme “Scaling AI Adoption in Nigeria,” and attracted more than 6,000 in-person attendees. It also featured live streaming at twelve AI community hubs across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. The event focused on the major obstacles to expanding AI use—such as talent, data, and computing infrastructure.

The 2026 version marks a significant strategic shift. With AI becoming increasingly embedded in everyday activities, this conference will transition its emphasis from implementation to an in-depth exploration of the core principles essential for long-term and reliable development.

Beyond highlighting responsible AI advancements in various sectors, the conference will include a set of specialized sessions to examine these crucial issues:

• AI Governance in Africa:Creating a structure for a reliable tomorrow.
• Deepfake Technology, Deception, and Safety Threats:Safeguarding Nigeria’s Online Community Against New Challenges.
• AI & Financial Services:Establishing confidence in the battle against deception and maintaining safe exchanges.
• Digital Literacy for All:Equipping individuals with knowledge and skills to thrive in the era of artificial intelligence.
• Responsible AI Innovation:Maintaining security and expansion to aid Africa’s rapidly growing entrepreneurial ecosystem.

“Artificial intelligence is transforming industries, economies, and societies at an unmatched speed, yet innovation without trust and regulation can result in people being left out. InnovateAI 2026 serves as a forum to enable Africa to shape its own AI future—one that is guided by ethics, diversity, and security,” stated Ehia Erhaboh, Co-Organizer, AI in Nigeria.

InnovateAI 2026 aims to gather decision-makers, business executives, tech specialists, and the general public to create a future where AI acts as a positive influence, promoting equal access, enhancing medical care, and supporting more efficient leadership.

Organizations aiming to influence the future of AI in Africa are encouraged to join as a partner or sponsor for InnovateAI 2026. This presents a special chance to showcase leadership in the responsible AI initiative, achieve focused exposure among important stakeholders, industry experts, decision-makers, innovators, and financiers – placing them at the forefront of Africa’s responsible AI efforts. Your assistance will significantly support an essential national conversation on AI governance and digital education, contributing to a safer, more equitable, and thriving future for Nigeria and the entire African continent.

This goes beyond a conference; it serves as a driver in defining Africa’s digital future,” stated Dotun Adeoye, Co-Convener of AI in Nigeria. “The backing from our partners is crucial in creating a fairer, safer, and more thriving AI environment for Nigeria and further afield.