Industry professionals at GITEX Nigeria 2026 urged African manufacturers to shift from experimental AI applications to practical, scalable technologies that can drive measurable economic value. The call came as stakeholders highlighted the potential for artificial intelligence to unlock billions in economic gains for the continent’s manufacturing sector, contingent on addressing critical gaps in data quality, infrastructure, energy supply, and technical expertise. Ian Leslie, Chief Information Officer of Dangote Cement, underscored the opportunity for African manufacturers to bypass outdated industrial systems through digital-first approaches, noting that the absence of legacy infrastructure could accelerate innovation compared to more developed markets.
Leslie emphasized that AI should not be seen as a substitute for foundational industrial improvements but as a tool to enhance efficiency. He pointed to global challenges in manufacturing, where fragmented, low-quality data locked in proprietary systems hinders automation. 'Africa’s advantage lies in its lack of legacy systems,' he said, adding that new industrial capacity could be built digitally rather than retrofitted. However, he warned that manufacturers face mounting pressure to adopt advanced technologies to remain competitive in global markets, where AI optimizes production, supply chains, and operations. The GITEX event, he noted, serves as a critical platform for connecting innovators and organizations driving Africa’s digital transformation.
The discussions at GITEX Nigeria 2026 also focused on the broader implications of AI adoption, including workforce augmentation, return on investment, and the role of digital infrastructure in scaling solutions. Participants stressed that Africa’s digital opportunity extends beyond online services or transactional growth, requiring robust frameworks to translate digital participation into economic empowerment. The event featured sessions on operational efficiency, data governance, and strategies to overcome technical skill shortages, reflecting the sector’s push for sustainable, technology-driven development.
As Africa’s manufacturing sector grapples with the dual challenges of modernization and global competition, the emphasis on practical AI deployment signals a pivotal shift. Industry leaders argue that without addressing systemic weaknesses, the continent risks missing out on the transformative potential of emerging technologies. The GITEX Nigeria 2026 summit, with its focus on collaboration and innovation, underscores the growing recognition that scalable AI solutions are not just a technological imperative but a cornerstone of economic resilience and growth.