Ayomide Otitoju
Lagos is set to host the inaugural Nigerian Fintech Festival, the nation’s largest fintech gathering, on September 26, 2024. Sponsored by FirstBank, a leading financial institution in West Africa, the festival will bring together over 1,000 stakeholders from the fintech and financial services sectors. The event aims to foster collaboration and partnerships to advance digital payments and drive sustainable growth in Nigeria’s business ecosystem.
Taking place at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, the festival will feature a stellar lineup of speakers, including Damilare Odueso, Co-Founder of Crendly; Mayowa Owolabi, Co-Founder of PaddyCover; Lanre Adelanwa, CEO of Optimus AI Labs; and Adaobi Igwe-Okerekeocha, Chief Innovations Officer at Interswitch Limited.
This year’s theme, “The Convergence to Co-Create & Celebrate Nigeria’s Truly Digital Economy,” underscores the festival’s commitment to fostering innovation in Nigeria’s digital landscape. Participants will engage in panel discussions, keynote addresses, and networking sessions focused on advancing digital payments and unlocking opportunities for growth.
Callistus Obetta, Group Executive, Technology, Digital Innovation & Services at FirstBank, expressed the bank’s enthusiasm: “FirstBank’s partnership with the Nigerian Fintech Festival reflects our dedication to driving innovation and collaboration within the financial sector. Our 130-year legacy has been built on empowering individuals, businesses, and communities, and we remain committed to supporting initiatives that will shape the future of Nigeria’s digital economy.”
The Nigerian Fintech Festival, which is free to attend, promises to equip participants with the tools and insights needed to thrive in the evolving fintech landscape. The event will conclude with an exciting afterparty featuring live performances by The Octaves Band, Mario Sings, and DJ Sammie, providing an opportunity for attendees to unwind and network.
According to Ikechukwu Ugwu, Founder of Total Scope Marketing Solutions and Convener of the festival, “The Nigeria Fintech Festival is designed to drive innovation and foster collaboration across Africa’s fintech ecosystem. By uniting thought leaders and industry players, we aim to address the challenges and harness the opportunities in Nigeria’s digital economy.”
With key sponsors like FirstBank, MTN, Gunness, and Optimus AI Labs, the festival promises a dynamic and immersive experience for all attendees.
