The Federal Government of Nigeria has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to host the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX), for the first time in 2025, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has said.

The MOU, signed by Kashifu Inuwa, Director General/CEO of NITDA, and Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International, the organisers of GITEX, signifies a significant milestone in Nigeria’s quest to position itself as a global tech powerhouse, according to NITDA.

Speaking on the importance of the MOU, Inuwa underscored the transformative potential of bringing GITEX to Nigeria, stating that the technology fair would introduce the country to the pinnacle of tech conferences. He emphasized that this strategic move aligns seamlessly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to drive economic reform and sustainable growth.

“The President’s directive is clear: we must build bridges with the rest of the world and leverage these connections to boost our economic growth. Through initiatives like GITEX Nigeria, we are creating platforms for our tech ecosystem to shine, demonstrating that Nigeria is not only open for business but is also a hub of innovation and creativity,” Inuwa said.

The show, organisers said, initially launched in 1981 as GITE, began in Hall One of the Dubai World Trade Centre. Over the years, it expanded to occupy the entire complex, now comprising 27 halls and two million square feet of exhibition space. In 2022, the GITEX brand name adopted the suffix ‘GLOBAL’ to emphasise its international reach, attracting technology companies, startups, speakers, and attendees from over 170 countries.

The event also boasts a significant government presence, with hundreds of government entities, ministers, and public sector officials showcasing major digital initiatives, innovations, and partnerships in the tech sector.

Expressing her excitement about the partnership, LohMirmand emphasized Nigeria’s growing tech ecosystem and its impressive performance at previous GITEX events.

She highlighted Nigeria’s status as the fastest-growing country for developers in Africa, pointing out untapped talent and vast potential in sectors such as AI, digital health, and fintech.

While the date for GITEX Nigeria is yet to be announced, Inuwa said that the agreement represents a significant stride toward positioning Nigeria as a prominent player in the global tech arena.