Kwara State launched new policies for integrating artificial intelligence into public administration during its first AI Summit in Ilorin. The event gathered over 1,500 participants to discuss AI applications in various sectors and announced partnerships for local innovators. Officials also introduced an AI-enabled government portal to modernize services.
The inaugural Kwara AI Summit, held over two days in Ilorin, marked a significant step toward digital transformation in the state. Policymakers, researchers, private-sector representatives, investors, and young innovators convened to explore AI's role in public services, agriculture, education, and creative industries. More than 1,500 people attended in person, with over 40 speakers participating both onsite and virtually.
A highlight was the Kwara AI Summit Hackathon, sponsored by Lovable, which attracted over 60 submissions. Fifteen teams advanced to the finals, and three winners each received ₦300,000 in seed funding to prototype solutions for civic and business issues.
Discussions on e-government emphasized embedding AI in public institutions to boost service delivery, transparency, and citizen engagement. Experts addressed policy needs, technical partnerships, and training for ethical AI deployment.
Mr. Wale Salami, Managing Director of the Midlothian Angels Network, announced an international collaboration providing Ilorin entrepreneurs access to U.S. capital, mentorship, and incorporation assistance.
The state also debuted the AI-enhanced portal at kwarastate.gov.ng, unveiled by Commissioner for Innovation, Honourable Damilola Adelodun, in partnership with the Ilorin Innovation Hub. This platform aims to update the government's digital interactions with residents.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq described the summit as a commitment to a tech-driven future. He stated, “The Ilorin AI Summit is not simply an event. It is a statement of purpose and a commitment to the future we seek for our people. We are building an ecosystem where talent is recognised, ideas are tested, and solutions are scaled to deliver real impact.” He added, “Our priority is to create the policy environment, institutional partnerships, and investment pathways that transform local ingenuity into sustainable jobs, thriving enterprises, and improved public services for every resident of Kwara.”
Temi Kolawole, Managing Director of the Ilorin Innovation Hub, praised the collaborative spirit. He noted, “What we witnessed at the summit is proof that collaboration unlocks possibility. When government, academia, investors, and creators come together with a shared purpose, an enabling environment is formed for experimentation and growth. The cross-border investment pathways, and the new digital platforms are practical enablers that will accelerate local innovation and create opportunities for thousands of learners and founders in Ilorin and beyond.”
The event drew support from government, universities, private firms, and international partners like IHS Towers, UNDP, and Zoho. Organizers plan to build on this by linking training programs to jobs and innovation, positioning Kwara as an AI hub in Nigeria and Africa.