AI in Nigeria, the country’s leading advocate for artificial intelligence development, has announced InnovateAI 2026, its third annual flagship conference, set to address the pressing challenges of deepfakes, fraud, and security risks in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Scheduled for 2026 in Lagos, the event, themed “Responsible AI beyond Innovation,” will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, and technology experts to forge solutions for a trustworthy AI future.
Building on the momentum of previous editions, InnovateAI 2026 aims to tackle emerging threats head-on, with a dedicated focus on safeguarding Nigeria’s digital society. The 2024 conference, themed “Adapting AI for Nigeria,” drew over 4,000 attendees and sparked critical policy discussions. The 2025 edition, “Scaling AI Adoption in Nigeria,” expanded to over 6,000 participants and was live-streamed to twelve AI community hubs across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. This year’s event will shift from adoption to ensuring AI’s growth is secure and ethical.
A key highlight of InnovateAI 2026 will be its deep dive into combating deepfakes, fraud, and security risks. Sessions like “Deepfakes, Fraud & Security Risks: Protecting Nigeria’s Digital Society from Emerging Threats” and “AI & Financial Services: Building Trust in the Fight Against Fraud” will explore strategies to protect individuals, businesses, and institutions from AI-driven threats. With deepfakes and financial fraud posing increasing risks across Africa, the conference aims to establish robust frameworks for secure AI applications.
Ehia Erhaboh, co-convener, AI in Nigeria, said, “AI is reshaping industries, economies, and societies at an unprecedented pace, but innovation without trust and governance risks leaving people behind. InnovateAI 2026 is a platform to ensure Africa defines its own AI future, one where ethics, inclusivity, and safety guide progress.”
Beyond security, the conference will address AI governance, digital literacy, and responsible innovation to support Africa’s startup ecosystem. By uniting global and local stakeholders, InnovateAI 2026 seeks to position Nigeria as a leader in ethical AI development.
“Organizations looking to shape Africa’s AI future are invited to become a partner or sponsor for InnovateAI 2026. This is a unique opportunity to demonstrate leadership in the responsible AI movement, gain targeted visibility among key stakeholders, industry leaders, policymakers, innovators, and investors, positioning themselves at the forefront of Africa’s responsible AI movement. Your support will directly contribute to a vital national dialogue on AI governance and digital literacy, helping to create a safer, more inclusive, and prosperous future for Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
“This is not just a conference, it is a catalyst for shaping Africa’s digital future. Our partners’ support is essential in building a more equitable, secure, and prosperous AI ecosystem for Nigeria and beyond,” said Dotun Adeoye, co-convener, AI in Nigeria.
