The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has officially kicked off a nationwide search for Nigeria’s most promising tech startups in preparation for GITEX Nigeria 2025. This exciting initiative will take place across all six geopolitical zones of the country, with roadshow events scheduled in Lagos, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Abuja, Gombe, and Kano between June and August.
NITDA’s Director-General and CEO, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, emphasized the agency’s commitment to discovering and supporting bold, local innovators who are developing scalable technology solutions to real-world problems. “From June to August, we will travel across Nigeria to uncover and spotlight startups that are shaping the future of technology in our country,” he said
The program is open to early-stage and growth-stage startups that are either registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) or in the process of registration. Eligible sectors include HealthTech, AgriTech, FinTech, Artificial Intelligence (AI), EdTech, ClimateTech, and CreativeTech.
Selected startups from each geopolitical zone will receive sponsorship to exhibit at the GITEX Nigeria 2025 Startup Festival, set to take place in Abuja from September 1 to 4. This platform offers an unparalleled opportunity to pitch ideas before a panel of ecosystem leaders, investors, and policymakers, gain national visibility, and connect with key players in the tech ecosystem.
Participants will also benefit from networking opportunities with hubs, media, investors, and policymakers, and prepare for potential participation in GITEX Global in Dubai, one of the world’s largest and most influential technology trade shows.
Interested startups can apply through a fully digital self-nomination form available on NITDA’s portal. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to pitch live during the zonal roadshows.
GITEX Nigeria is modeled after the renowned Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX) held annually in Dubai. The event has grown into a global platform where governments, multinational companies, investors, and startups converge to showcase innovations and explore emerging technologies. Recognizing the value of this global exposure, NITDA established GITEX Nigeria to promote indigenous startups, facilitate investment, and connect Nigerian innovators to global markets.
