All preparations are now complete for Akwa Ibom Tech Week (AKTW) 2025, as the countdown officially begins for the landmark event set to transform the state’s growing technology sector.
Scheduled from 3 to 8 November in Uyo, AKTW 2025 aims to promote digital transformation, attract essential investments, and drive notable socio-economic development across Akwa Ibom.
Hanson Johnson, President of Ibom Innovation Network, the organiser of the event, stated that this edition is motivated by a strong belief in the vast, untapped potential of Akwa Ibom’s youth and its lively spirit of innovation.
“We recognised the critical need for a platform that could not only showcase this talent but also connect it with the resources, knowledge, and opportunities required to truly flourish,” Johnson stated, emphasising that the core goals of AKTW 2025 are to accelerate digital transformation across all sectors, draw substantial investment into the tech ecosystem, and generate tangible socio-economic impact through job creation, skills development, and groundbreaking innovation.
Johnson shared his ambitious vision for Akwa Ibom: to evolve into a significant producer and exporter of digital solutions, rather than merely a consumer of technology. He revealed that Akwa Ibom Tech Week perfectly aligns with the state government’s progressive ARISE Agenda, particularly its focus on digital services, enterprise development, and human capital development.
“Governor Umo Eno’s administration has articulated a clear vision for a digitally empowered and future-smart Akwa Ibom. Our event serves as a critical accelerator for this vision,” Johnson affirmed. He explained that by bringing together tech leaders, innovators, investors, academia and policymakers, AKTW will foster an environment ripe for developing and implementing solutions that will directly contribute to a more efficient, transparent, and digitally empowered government and economy.
For startups, tech entrepreneurs, and the youth of Akwa Ibom, Johnson said AKTW 2025 is poised to be a hub of opportunity. “It provides unmatched visibility to potential investors, partners, and customers through its Venture Showcase and Pitch Competition Semi-Finals and Finals, creating a direct link to funding and mentorship.”
Johnson stated that attendees can also expect interactive workshops and masterclasses led by industry experts, focusing on vital skills in AI, Web3, the creator economy, and venture building. The Career Fair will connect young people directly with leading tech companies and startups, opening opportunities for internships and employment. “It’s a unique chance to learn, network, and be inspired by the vast possibilities technology offers for their future,” he added.
AKTW 2025 will showcase a distinguished line-up of global tech leaders, visionary entrepreneurs, influential angel investors, and venture capitalists eager to explore Africa’s growing tech landscape.
The Project Manager for Ibom Innovation Network, Miss Ekemini Joseph, confirmed that keynote speeches from pioneers in artificial intelligence and blockchain are expected, alongside engaging panel discussions with founders of successful African tech unicorns.
She also noted that major players in the telecommunications and financial services sectors are collaborating with the event, all dedicated to fostering innovation.
“Akwa Ibom Tech Week is strategically establishing the state as Africa’s New Tech Destination, which has, in turn, substantially revitalised its tourism sector. The event’s capacity to draw a global audience has directly resulted in increased occupancy rates for hotels and a surge in air travel, concurrently stimulating growth across a myriad of local businesses. This significant influx of tech enthusiasts and investors is proving instrumental in diversifying the state’s economic landscape, generating considerable revenue, and fostering new employment opportunities beyond its traditional sectors. Ekemini added.
Also speaking, the Planning Committee Chair, Mrs Enoabasi Emah, confirmed that strategies are firmly in place to ensure broad participation, especially for women, students, and individuals from underserved communities.
“These include targeted outreach programs, scholarships, and subsidised tickets to overcome financial barriers, as well as dedicated workshops and mentorship sessions tailored for women in tech and aspiring young innovators,” she said.
The venue, CEEDAPEG Hotel in Uyo, will be made accessible to people with disabilities through collaboration with relevant organisations to ensure comfortable participation. Partnerships with NGOs and foundations focused on digital literacy and empowerment for marginalised groups will further amplify the reach.
