By Damilola Adeleke

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has announced that his administration is actively working on policies and initiatives to position Lagos as Africa’s leading hub for digital gaming, fintech solutions, and AI-driven creative enterprises.

Speaking at the Africa Gaming Expo (AGE) 2025 at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, the governor reaffirmed his government’s commitment to fostering innovation, responsible gaming, and digital entrepreneurship. The event brought together regulators, investors, stakeholders, and gaming enthusiasts from across Africa and beyond.

The Role of AI, Fintech, and Gaming in Africa’s Digital Economy

In his keynote address, Sanwo-Olu highlighted the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI), fintech, and gaming in reshaping Africa’s digital economy. He urged stakeholders to explore AI applications in fraud detection, personalized gaming experiences, responsible gaming, and financial security.

“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,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu emphasized that AI-driven tools are enabling game developers, fintech innovators, and digital content creators to build more immersive and inclusive platforms that drive engagement and profitability.

Lagos State’s Commitment to a Thriving Digital Ecosystem

The governor assured that the Lagos State government is dedicated to creating an ecosystem where fintech startups, game developers, and AI pioneers can collaborate and scale their innovations globally.

“We are actively working on policies and initiatives that will 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.”

He described AGE 2025 as a crucial platform for engaging in discussions on AI’s role in 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,” Sanwo-Olu added.

Industry Stakeholders Weigh In

Also speaking at the event, the CEO of the Lagos State Lottery and Gaming Authority (LSLGA), Mr. Bashir Are, emphasized the importance of AGE as an annual gathering for gaming regulators, operators, and industry players to discuss challenges and solutions.

He revealed that the 2025 edition, themed “Transforming the Gaming Sector with Artificial Intelligence and Fintech,” has attracted over 500 delegates from across the globe.

With Lagos at the forefront of fintech, AI, and gaming, the state is positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s digital future.