Lagos Aims to Become Africa’s Leading Fintech and AI Innovation Hub – Sanwo-Olu
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to positioning Lagos as Africa’s leading hub for digital gaming, fintech solutions, and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven creative enterprises.
Speaking at the Africa Gaming Expo (AGE) 2025 held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, the governor emphasized that Lagos is laying the foundation for an innovative, secure, and inclusive digital economy. The expo brought together regulators, investors, and gaming enthusiasts from across Nigeria and Africa.
Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted the synergies between gaming, fintech, entertainment, and AI, describing them as key drivers of Africa’s digital transformation.
“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,” he noted.
He called on stakeholders to leverage AI to enhance fraud detection, improve personalized gaming experiences, promote responsible gaming initiatives, and bolster financial security.
Sanwo-Olu further outlined the state’s policy direction, stating:
“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 Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Lottery and Gaming Authority (LSLGA), Bashir Are, noted that the Africa Gaming Expo provides a platform for industry leaders to discuss, strategize, and innovate on emerging trends. Over 500 delegates from across the world participated in the event, themed “Transforming the Gaming Sector with Artificial Intelligence and Fintech.”
Lagos’ continued push for technology-driven entrepreneurship underscores its ambition to lead Africa’s digital economy, attracting investments and fostering innovation-driven growth.
