Nigeria’s technology scene is preparing for a major showcase as more than 750 startups from Nigeria and over 25 countries are expected at the GITEX Nigeria Startup Festival in Lagos on September 2 and 3, 2026.
The event is bringing together founders building products around some of Nigeria’s biggest economic challenges — from artificial intelligence and healthcare to agriculture, financial technology and mobility.
Rather than focusing only on futuristic ideas, many of the companies represented are developing practical tools designed to solve everyday problems.
In AI, Nigerian founders are increasingly building systems for local businesses, financial services, language technology and professional work. Companies such as Modulaw AI are applying AI to legal operations, while Xara is using conversational technology to allow users to carry out financial transactions through messaging platforms.
Healthcare is another major area of innovation. Remedial Health, founded by Samuel Okwuada and Victor Benjamin, is developing technology to help pharmacies manage inventory, verify suppliers and finance medicine purchases. 10mg Health, founded by Christian Nwachukwu, is using data-driven financing to help healthcare providers manage treatment costs and liquidity.
Agriculture is also attracting technology entrepreneurs. Tomato Jos, co-founded by Mira Mehta and Shane Kiernan, works with more than 3,000 smallholder farmers while processing locally sourced tomatoes. The company secured $2 million in financing in 2026 to expand its processing capacity and supply chain.
Fintech remains one of Nigeria’s strongest startup categories. LemFi, co-founded by Ridwan Olalere, raised $32 million in a Series B extension in May 2026 and serves more than two million users globally, according to reports. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s wider fintech industry continues to attract a significant share of venture capital flowing into the country.
Mobility is another space where Nigerian founders are building beyond traditional ride-hailing. Moove, co-founded by Ladi Delano, uses vehicle financing and alternative credit assessment to help drivers gain access to cars and earn income through mobility platforms. The company has since expanded into several international markets.
The scale of GITEX Nigeria also reflects the growing size of the country’s digital economy. The event organisers say Nigeria’s AI market could reach $4.64 billion by 2030, while the telecoms market is projected to reach $11.43 billion by 2029.
Investors will be watching closely. GITEX says investors managing more than $200 billion in global capital will be connected to participating startups, giving founders an opportunity to pitch products, secure partnerships and raise funding.
With more than 750 startups converging in Lagos, GITEX Nigeria will offer a snapshot of where the country’s next generation of businesses is heading — and how Nigerian founders are turning local problems into technology products with global ambitions.
