Lagos’ agenda is to become Africa’s leading fintech hub – Sanwo-Olu
By Adeola Ogunrinde
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday disclosed that his administration is actively working on policies and initiatives to position Lagos as Africa’s leading hub for digital gaming, fintech solutions, and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven creative enterprises.
The Governor reaffirmed the Lagos State government’s commitment to fostering an environment where innovation thrives, responsible gaming is prioritized, and digital entrepreneurship flourishes.
Sanwo-Olu spoke at the Africa Gaming Expo (AGE) 2025, held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. The event was attended by regulators, investors, stakeholders, and gaming enthusiasts from Nigeria and other African countries.
In his keynote address, the Governor highlighted the significant potential for collaboration between gaming, fintech, entertainment, and AI in shaping the future of Africa’s digital economy.
He urged participants at the expo to leverage AI for fraud detection, personalized gaming experiences, responsible gaming initiatives, and financial security.
He said: “Over the last decade, Africa’s gaming and fintech sectors have witnessed explosive growth, driven by increasing smartphone penetration, digital transactions, and a young, tech-savvy population. This evolution is not only transforming how we play and pay but also how we create and consume entertainment.
“AI is at the forefront of this revolution, powering fraud detection, personalized gaming experiences, responsible gaming initiatives, and financial security. AI-driven tools are also enabling game developers, fintech innovators, and digital content creators to build more immersive and inclusive platforms that drive engagement and profitability.
“Here in Lagos, we recognize the immense potential of the synergy between gaming, fintech, entertainment, and AI. As a government, we are committed to fostering an ecosystem where innovation thrives, responsible gaming is prioritized, and digital entrepreneurship flourishes.
“We are actively working on policies and initiatives to position Lagos as the leading hub for digital gaming, fintech solutions, and AI-driven creative enterprises in Africa. Through progressive regulations, strategic investments, and digital infrastructure, we aim to create an environment where game developers, fintech startups, content creators, and AI pioneers can collaborate and scale their innovations globally.
“The Africa Gaming Expo 2025 provides a vital platform for stakeholders, regulators, investors, and technology pioneers to engage in meaningful discussions on how AI can drive efficiency, security, and inclusivity across gaming, fintech, and entertainment. This is more than just an expo—it is a launchpad for ideas, partnerships, and innovations that will define the next phase of Africa’s digital transformation.”
Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Lottery and Gaming Authority (LSLGA), Mr. Bashir Are, highlighted the benefits of the expo, stating that AGE is an annual event where gaming regulators, operators, and industry stakeholders come together to deliberate and proffer solutions to challenges affecting the sector.
He disclosed that over 500 delegates from around the world are participating in the event, themed “Transforming the Gaming Sector with Artificial Intelligence and Fintech.”
