TeXcellence Conference 5.0 Outlines the Path Towards Africa’s Digital Acceleration

Lagos, Nigeria, is strengthening its position as a meeting point for Africa’s technology industry as business leaders, policymakers and innovators explore ways to accelerate the continent’s digital development.

The fifth edition of the TeXcellence Conference, organised by Computer Warehouse Group (CWG), took place on October 13, 2026, at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos. The event brought together stakeholders from technology, banking, finance, cybersecurity, public service and the creative industry to discuss Africa’s digital future.

Under the theme “Accelerating Africa’s Digital Future,” discussions focused on artificial intelligence (AI), digital public infrastructure, digital identity, financial security and the business of creativity.

Artificial Intelligence and Digital Infrastructure

One of the conference’s major themes was how artificial intelligence can transform African businesses and public institutions.

As AI develops, African countries face the challenge of moving beyond simply adopting technology to building systems that can support innovation and compete globally. The discussions explored how businesses and governments can use digital tools to improve efficiency and create opportunities for economic growth.

Digital infrastructure was another important focus. Reliable systems for managing information, delivering services and connecting institutions are essential for technology to work effectively across different sectors.

Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr Obafemi Hamzat emphasised the importance of government involvement in helping technological innovations expand beyond small projects. He argued that Africa’s challenge is not simply developing good ideas but creating the conditions that allow successful innovations to reach more people.

This highlights the need for governments to support research, invest in technology and establish policies that help startups and established businesses grow.

Government’s Role in Africa’s Digital Future

The conference highlighted the importance of government in creating an environment where technology can thrive.

Public institutions influence how digital services are developed, funded and adopted. When governments invest in technology and improve their systems, they can make public services more efficient and encourage innovation across the wider economy.

Hamzat discussed Lagos State’s efforts to support researchers and startups through investments and grants. He also announced a proposed innovation law intended to support research, development and investment in new ideas.

Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Secretary to the Enugu State Government, also stressed the importance of government leadership in technological development.

He argued that African countries should build technological capabilities while maintaining ownership and control of their data. This would allow them to benefit from global technology while protecting their interests.

These discussions demonstrate that digital transformation requires more than access to modern tools. It also depends on effective policies, capable institutions and the ability to expand successful innovations.

Digital Identity and Financial Security

Digital identity and trust in financial services were also key topics at TeXcellence 5.0.

As financial transactions and public services increasingly move online, protecting personal information and ensuring secure access to digital platforms have become increasingly important.

Discussions on digital public infrastructure explored how technology could improve cooperation between institutions and make services more effective.

Njide Ndili, Country Director for Nigeria at PharmAccess, highlighted the potential benefits of sharing health information between healthcare institutions. Such cooperation could improve patient care, provided that information is shared with the appropriate permission and safeguards.

For financial institutions and technology companies, these discussions underline the importance of developing secure systems that protect users while making digital services more accessible.

Opportunities for Startups and Creative Professionals

The conference also examined the business of African creativity and how local talent can reach international audiences.

African filmmakers, writers and other creative professionals have opportunities to develop intellectual property that can generate value beyond local markets. However, achieving this requires effective business strategies, investment and the protection of creative work.

The discussions also highlighted the importance of collaboration between technology companies, governments and other industries.

For startups, the message was that developing an innovative product is only one part of building a successful business. Entrepreneurs must also find ways to expand their solutions, reach customers and operate in larger markets.

Workers can benefit by developing digital skills that help them adapt to changes in technology and business practices.

The Road Ahead for Africa

TeXcellence Conference 5.0 brought attention to the challenges and opportunities shaping Africa’s digital future.

From artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure to financial security and creative businesses, the discussions emphasised the importance of collaboration and practical solutions.

The event also reinforced the role of government in creating an environment where innovation can develop and successful projects can expand.

Ultimately, Africa’s digital progress will depend on its ability to develop local capabilities, protect valuable information and turn promising ideas into solutions that benefit businesses and communities.

As the continent continues its digital transformation, the priority is not simply to adopt new technology but to build systems that allow innovation to grow and deliver lasting value.