The Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the official tour of GITEX Nigeria, highlighting the growing importance of technology to the state’s economy.
Epe Insights reports Hamzat said technology is playing an important role in driving economic growth and creating new opportunities for young people across Lagos.
According to him, the presence of GITEX in Lagos further demonstrates the state’s growing influence as a hub for innovation and technology in Africa.
GITEX Nigeria brings together stakeholders within the technology and innovation ecosystem, providing opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs, innovators and other industry players to connect and showcase their ideas.
Hamzat said the Lagos State Government remains committed to creating an environment where innovation can develop and translate into practical opportunities for residents.
He noted that investment in appropriate infrastructure is essential to supporting the growth of the technology ecosystem and enabling young people to participate meaningfully in the digital economy.
The Deputy Governor also highlighted the importance of supporting local founders as part of efforts to strengthen entrepreneurship and innovation in the state.
He said government support for technology-driven businesses can help create opportunities for young people while contributing to wider economic development.
The Lagos Government’s focus on technology reflects the increasing role of digital innovation in modern economies.
For Lagos, the sector offers opportunities in entrepreneurship, employment, digital services and the development of new businesses.
Hamzat’s representation of Sanwo-Olu at the GITEX Nigeria tour also underscored the administration’s continued interest in strengthening Lagos’ position within Africa’s technology ecosystem.
The Deputy Governor said the state is investing in infrastructure and initiatives capable of supporting innovation and encouraging more people to participate in the digital economy.
He added that creating the right environment for innovation remains important to ensuring that technology produces tangible benefits for the people.
The growing presence of technology-focused events in Lagos has also provided a platform for local innovators to engage with wider industry networks.
Such platforms can expose entrepreneurs and technology businesses to new ideas, partnerships and opportunities within and outside Nigeria.
Hamzat stressed that the objective is not only to promote technology but also to ensure that innovation contributes to real economic opportunities.
He said Lagos is determined to continue supporting initiatives that can strengthen its reputation as a leading destination for technology and innovation in Africa.
The Deputy Governor’s comments come as governments and private-sector stakeholders increasingly explore technology as a tool for economic transformation and youth development.
Lagos, with its large population and growing business ecosystem, remains strategically positioned to benefit from continued investment in digital infrastructure and innovation.
The state government has therefore continued to emphasise the need for collaboration among government, entrepreneurs, investors and technology professionals.
According to Hamzat, such collaboration is necessary to build an ecosystem where ideas can grow into sustainable businesses and create opportunities for the wider population.
The GITEX Nigeria platform provides another avenue for stakeholders to examine emerging technologies and explore their potential impact on businesses and society.
For young Nigerians, increased access to technology, skills and entrepreneurship opportunities could provide new pathways into the evolving digital economy.
Hamzat reaffirmed that the Lagos State Government will continue to support initiatives that encourage innovation and strengthen opportunities for young people.
He maintained that with the right infrastructure, support systems and business environment, technology can become an even stronger driver of economic growth.
The official tour therefore highlighted Lagos State’s broader ambition to remain competitive in the rapidly changing global technology landscape.
As GITEX Nigeria continues to draw attention to the country’s technology ecosystem, Lagos is positioning itself to play a stronger role in Africa’s innovation and digital economy.
