Nigeria’s Rising Influence in Global AI: A Look at Dubai AI Week 2025

Last month, Nigeria made a remarkable mark on the global technology scene by leading a significant delegation to Dubai AI Week 2025. This prestigious international summit, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, was organized by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence in collaboration with the Dubai Future Foundation. The event served as a platform to showcase innovations in artificial intelligence, and Nigeria’s presence was a testament to its aspirations in the global digital economy.

Curating Innovation: The Nigerian Delegation

At the helm of the Nigerian delegation was Folajimi Daodu, a trailblazing tech entrepreneur and CEO of Vault Hill. His co-founding of Safira Events further underscores his commitment to fostering technological dialogue and collaboration. The group featured a diverse array of Nigeria’s leading AI entrepreneurs and ecosystem builders, all united under a common goal: to shine a light on Nigeria’s advancements in the AI sector.

Prominent figures included Yinka Iyinolakan from CDIAL, Omi Iyamu of AVA AI, Esther Iyamu of GrowthQ, and many others. Their participation not only highlighted individual achievements but also illustrated Nigeria’s collective efforts in harnessing AI for various sectors.

Showcasing Nigerian Innovations

Throughout Dubai AI Week, delegates participated in keynotes, panels, workshops, and exhibitions, engaging deeply within the Dubai AI Assembly and the Machines Can See Summit. Their activities showcased Nigeria’s innovation across diverse areas such as AI-driven education, customer engagement, branding, and funding.

One particularly striking contribution was from CDIAL, which unveiled solutions like Indigenous AI and Stakestack AI. These platforms aim to bridge gaps in local language processing and adaptive learning, capturing the attention of international partners and investors alike. Such initiatives reflect Nigeria’s commitment to addressing unique challenges while leveraging its rich cultural heritage.

Government Support: The Renewed Hope Agenda

The strong presence of the Nigerian delegation was not just a matter of pride, but a strategic extension of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. This initiative emphasizes innovation, digital transformation, and international collaboration as pivotal components for national economic growth and youth empowerment. By aligning with these national goals, the delegation’s efforts resonate with the broader vision for Nigeria’s digital future.

Building the Groundwork: Collaborative Initiatives

This significant participation is backed by foundational work from organizations like the Nigeria AI Collective and Data Science Nigeria. These groups play an essential role in fostering policy dialogue, enhancing technical capacities, and driving grassroots engagement across the nation. Their initiatives promise a holistic approach to AI education and development, preparing young Nigerians to contribute meaningfully to the global tech landscape.

Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has outlined Five Strategic Pillars that guide this agenda: Knowledge, Policy, Infrastructure, Innovation, and Capital. These pillars are designed to create a robust framework for nurturing talent and establishing Nigeria as a competitive player within the AI domain.

A Strategic Shift in Global Discourse

Observers of the summit noted that Nigeria’s involvement transcended mere symbolism. It marked a strategic shift from being a peripheral player to taking a central role in global AI discussions. This newfound visibility can pave the way for deeper international collaborations, catalyzing growth within the Nigerian tech ecosystem while simultaneously contributing to global advancements in artificial intelligence.

Building the Future

As Dubai AI Week 2025 concluded, it became increasingly clear that Nigeria is not just envisioning its digital future — it is actively constructing it and making strides to export its innovations on a global scale. With continued support from its government, organizations, and entrepreneurs, Nigeria is poised to remain a significant player in the ever-evolving world of artificial intelligence, showcasing its unique solutions and driving change both locally and internationally.