The University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, Lagos, is set to host the IEEE Nigeria International Conference on Digital Transformation, NIGERCON 2026.
The forum will enable the country to strengthen its position in Africa’s digital transformation landscape as the forum will explore the convergence of emerging technologies and digital innovation across critical sectors. The technical tracks and subthemes include: Connectivity & Communications: Focusing on 5G, 6G, telecommunication systems, and IoT technologies; Artificial Intelligence & Data: Covering AI, data science, machine learning, and cybersecurity; Digital Infrastructure & Industry: Addressing robotics, quantum computing, smart city systems, and green energy; and Societal Impact, Economy & Policy: Exploring digital transformation in education, health, agriculture, finance, and governance
The conference scheduled for between November 5 and 6, 2026, will bring together researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, and global technology experts to explore how emerging technologies can drive inclusive economic growth, improve public sector efficiency, and enhance industrial competitiveness across Nigeria and Africa.
As Nigeria’s digital economy continues to contribute significantly to national GDP, NIGERCON 2026 is expected to serve as a strategic bridge between government, academia, and the private sector. The conference aligns with national priorities focused on digital public infrastructure, innovation-led growth, and technology-enabled service delivery in sectors such as healthcare, education, finance, and smart infrastructure.
The event will also provide government ministries, departments, and agencies with opportunities to engage with cutting-edge research, support evidence-based policymaking, and contribute to regulatory frameworks that encourage innovation while addressing national development challenges.
A major focus of the conference will be the translation of research into practical and deployable solutions. Through collaboration among universities, research institutions, startups, and industry players, NIGERCON aims to strengthen Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem and accelerate the commercialization of locally relevant technologies. Discussions will cover emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, next-generation wireless networks, blockchain technologies, cybersecurity, advanced computing, and autonomous systems.
The NIGERCON 2026 organising committee is also calling on researchers to submit their work for possible presentation at the conference. Prospective authors should submit original, unpublished manuscripts on digital transformation technologies by June 30, 2026. Papers must not exceed five pages in IEEE double-column format (including figures and references) and cannot be under consideration elsewhere. (https://easychair.org/cfp/NIGERCON-26)
For ICT operators, technology firms, and sponsors, the conference offers opportunities to engage directly with researchers and policymakers shaping Africa’s digital future, gain insights into emerging technologies and talent pipelines, and showcase innovative solutions within a high-impact knowledge-driven environment.
NIGERCON 2026 is coordinated by Prof. Ifeyinwa Achumba and supported by a multidisciplinary organizing committee that combines academic excellence with industry expertise. Key members include Chukwuemeka Gerald Okafor, Prof. Nasir Faruk, Agbotiname Lucky Imoize, and Prof. Peter Olabisi Oluseyi, alongside other distinguished experts.
According to the organizers, the conference is designed to address critical national challenges through the application of digital technologies and artificial intelligence, particularly in healthcare delivery, education systems, financial inclusion, and infrastructure development. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, NIGERCON 2026 is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to develop innovative homegrown solutions with global relevance.
The conference also builds on the momentum of IEEE-led initiatives focused on digital inclusion across Africa, further reinforcing Nigeria’s growing role as a hub for digital policy dialogue, research excellence, and technology-driven development on the continent.
