Nigeria is poised to enhance its role in Africa’s digital transformation as the IEEE Nigeria International Conference on Digital Transformation, NIGERCON 2026, is scheduled for November 5–6, 2026, at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, Lagos. This pivotal event will delve into the intersection of emerging technologies and digital innovation across vital sectors.
NIGERCON 2026 will feature four core technical tracks and subthemes. The first track, Connectivity and Communications, will focus on 5G, 6G, telecommunication systems, and IoT technologies. The second track, Artificial Intelligence and Data, will cover AI, data science, machine learning, and cybersecurity. The third track, Digital Infrastructure and Industry, will address robotics, quantum computing, smart city systems, and green energy. Finally, the Societal Impact, Economy and Policy track will explore digital transformation in education, health, agriculture, finance, and governance.
Bridging Government, Academia, and Industry
The conference aims to unite researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, and global technology experts to explore how emerging technologies can foster inclusive economic growth, enhance public sector efficiency, and boost industrial competitiveness across Nigeria and Africa.
As Nigeria’s digital economy continues to make significant contributions to national GDP, NIGERCON 2026 is expected to serve as a crucial link between government, academia, and the private sector. The conference aligns with national priorities that emphasize digital public infrastructure, innovation-led growth, and technology-enabled service delivery in sectors including healthcare, education, finance, and smart infrastructure.
Government ministries, departments, and agencies will have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research, support evidence-based policymaking, and contribute to regulatory frameworks that promote innovation while addressing national development challenges.
From Research to Real-World Solutions
A key focus of the conference will be translating research into practical, deployable solutions. Through collaboration among universities, research institutions, startups, and industry players, NIGERCON aims to bolster Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem and expedite the commercialization of locally relevant technologies. Discussions will encompass emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, next-generation wireless networks, blockchain technologies, cybersecurity, advanced computing, and autonomous systems.
Call for Papers: Submit Your Research
The NIGERCON 2026 organizing committee invites researchers to submit their work for potential 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. Submission Portal.
Opportunities for Industry and Sponsors
For ICT operators, technology firms, and sponsors, the conference presents opportunities to:
- Engage directly with researchers and policymakers shaping Africa’s digital future.
- Gain insights into emerging technologies and talent pipelines.
- Showcase innovative solutions within a high-impact, knowledge-driven environment.
Organizing Committee and Leadership
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.
Addressing National Challenges Through Digital Innovation
According to the organizers, the conference is designed to tackle critical national challenges through the application of digital technologies and artificial intelligence, particularly in healthcare delivery, education systems, financial inclusion, and infrastructure development. By uniting diverse stakeholders, NIGERCON 2026 aims to enhance Nigeria’s capacity to develop innovative homegrown solutions with global relevance.
Reinforcing Nigeria’s Digital Leadership in Africa
The conference builds on the momentum of IEEE-led initiatives focused on digital inclusion across Africa, further solidifying Nigeria’s emerging role as a hub for digital policy dialogue, research excellence, and technology-driven development on the continent.