The energy in Lagos is unmistakable. The city’s skyline shimmers not just with lights but with anticipation as Africa’s boldest innovators, industry leaders, tech disruptors, and visionaries converge today, November 13, 2025, for the highly anticipated Africa Tech Alliance Forum (AfriTECH) 5.0 and the prestigious Africa Tech Alliance Excellence (ATAEx) Awards, holding at the elegant Oriental Hotel, Lekki.
From the early hours, the grand venue buzzed with excitement. Attendees, clad in sharp suits, vibrant African prints, and the signature glow of tech enthusiasm, filled the halls as the event kicked off at 9:00 AM (WAT). The theme of this year’s edition, “AI and Sovereign Tech: Building Africa’s Digital Independence,” sets the tone for what promises to be a groundbreaking day of dialogue, discovery, and disruption.
At a time when artificial intelligence is reshaping the global economy, AfriTECH 5.0 stands tall as Africa’s loudest declaration of digital sovereignty—a rallying point for the continent to craft its own narrative, innovate on its own terms, and build sustainable systems powered by local brilliance.
“This isn’t just another tech conference,” said Chike Onwuegbuchi, Co-Convener of AfriTECH 5.0, in his opening address. “It’s where bold ideas meet real impact—where Africa’s digital journey is rewritten through courage, creativity, and collaboration.”
And bold ideas are indeed flowing. The event features a stellar lineup of speakers and industry giants, including Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC); Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC); Prof. Obadare Peter Adewale, Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Digital Encode Ltd.; George Agu, Group President of ActivEdge Technologies; Engr. Ikechukwu Nnamani, CEO of Digital Realty Nigeria; Muhammed Rudman, CEO of the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN); and Dr. (Mrs.) Ebehijie Momoh, CEO of AfriGoPay Financial Services Limited.
Adding more sparkle to the stage are Tokunboh George-Taylor, CEO of SKOT Communications; Chidi Okpala, renowned Personal Branding Expert; Chudi Ajuzie, Group CEO of WTES Ltd; and John Itodo, an emerging markets AI and tech innovator.
Conversations That Matter
Beyond the glitter, today’s sessions dive deep into the heart of Africa’s digital future. A major highlight is the Fireside Chat hosted by Lagos Blockchain Week, featuring thought leaders such as Chukwuemeka Enoch Mbaebie, Convener of Lagos Blockchain Week; Senator Ihenyen, Lead Partner at Infusion Lawyers and past President of SiBAN; and Damilare Aregbesola, West Africa Lead at Coinbase. Their discussion—equal parts passionate and provocative—explores blockchain’s role in transparency, decentralized governance, and Africa’s financial revolution.
From AI ethics to cybersecurity, fintech growth to policy reform, every panel crackles with the energy of people who aren’t just talking about Africa’s tech future—they’re building it.
As the sun sets over Lekki, the spotlight shifts to the Africa Tech Alliance Excellence (ATAEx) Awards, where the continent’s trailblazers, innovators, and changemakers will be honored for their extraordinary contributions to digital transformation.
The awards ceremony, often dubbed “Africa’s Tech Oscars,” promises a night of elegance, applause, and inspiration. Expect red-carpet moments, networking magic, and emotional acceptance speeches that capture the spirit of a continent on the rise.
This year’s edition is proudly supported by Digital Encode as Platinum Sponsor, alongside itel, SKOT Communications, Tecom, AfriGoPay, Tizel Cybersecurity, and ActivEdge Technologies—a powerhouse coalition united by one vision: to make Africa’s digital future truly sovereign.
With over 15 media partners amplifying the message—including AriseTV, TechTrends.Africa, TechBuild.Africa, RavenewsOnline.com, NigeriaCommunicationsWeek.com.ng, GrassRoots.ng, ITPulse.com.ng, TechnologyMirror.com.ng, DigitalTimesng.com, CyberEra.com.ng, ITRealms.com.ng, SwiftReporters.com, BusinessRemarks, BusinessMetricsng.com, and TechandBizNews—AfriTECH 5.0 has become the heartbeat of the continent’s digital conversation.
Attendance is free but exclusive, with both physical and virtual participation available to ensure that no one misses this defining moment in Africa’s tech evolution.
As Lagos pulses with excitement, AfriTECH 5.0 is more than an event—it’s a movement. A vibrant celebration of Africa’s intelligence, innovation, and independence. It’s where AI meets ambition, where policy meets purpose, and where Africa takes charge of its technological destiny.
So today, as the speakers inspire, the innovators connect, and the awards shine, one truth rings clear through the buzzing halls of the Oriental Hotel:
Africa isn’t just talking tech anymore—Africa is making history.
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