AI in Nigeria, an advocacy group for artificial intelligence development in the country, has announced plans to host the third edition of its flagship annual conference, InnovateAI, in 2026.
Themed “Responsible AI Beyond Innovation,” the 2026 gathering will shift the national conversation from adoption to the underlying principles of ethics, governance, and security in artificial intelligence.
Organisers said the conference would bring together policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, technology experts, and members of the public to deliberate on how AI can be deployed responsibly to foster inclusive growth, strengthen governance, and deliver value across industries.
“InnovateAI 2026 is a platform to ensure Africa defines its own AI future, one where ethics, inclusivity, and safety guide progress,” said Ehia Erhaboh, co-convener of AI in Nigeria. “AI is reshaping industries, economies, and societies at an unprecedented pace, but innovation without trust and governance risks leaving people behind.”
The InnovateAI conference series has become a central forum for Nigeria’s AI ecosystem. Its maiden edition in 2024, themed “Adapting AI for Nigeria,” attracted over 4,000 participants, including innovators, academics, researchers, and policymakers. That conference helped catalyse policy conversations on AI’s role in national development.
In 2025, the second edition themed “Scaling AI Adoption in Nigeria” recorded more than 6,000 physical attendees and extended its reach through livestreams to twelve AI in Nigeria community hubs across the six geopolitical zones. Discussions at that event focused on systemic barriers to AI adoption, including talent development, data access, and computing infrastructure.
The 2026 edition, organisers said, represents a strategic evolution. As AI becomes further integrated into everyday life, the emphasis will move beyond adoption to ensuring that innovation is grounded in trust, transparency, and sustainability.
According to the organisers, InnovateAI 2026 will host a series of specialised sessions designed to address some of the most pressing issues in artificial intelligence today. One of these sessions will centre on AI governance in Africa, exploring how countries on the continent can establish effective frameworks for a trusted digital future. Another will tackle the rising threat of deepfakes, fraud, and other security risks, with a focus on protecting Nigeria’s digital society from emerging dangers.
There will also be a dedicated discussion on AI in financial services, particularly how the technology can help build trust in fraud prevention and ensure more secure digital transactions. In addition, the conference will highlight the importance of digital literacy for all, stressing the need to equip citizens with the knowledge and skills to thrive in an AI-driven economy. The programme will also feature conversations on responsible AI innovation, exploring how Africa’s burgeoning startup ecosystem can strike a balance between safety, inclusivity, and sustainable growth.
Dotun Adeoye, co-convener of AI in Nigeria, described the event as more than just a gathering of experts. “This is not just a conference, it’s a catalyst for shaping Africa’s digital future,” he said. “Our partners’ support is essential in building a more equitable, secure, and prosperous AI ecosystem for Nigeria and beyond.”
The conference is scheduled to showcase responsible AI applications across diverse industries, while reinforcing Nigeria’s role as a continental leader in shaping ethical and inclusive technological growth.
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