Kwara State has launched a bold initiative to embed artificial intelligence into public administration, unveiling new e-government platforms and international investment pathways at the inaugural Kwara AI Summit held in Ilorin from December 2–3, 2025.

The two-day summit drew more than 1,500 participants, including policymakers, investors, innovators, and over 40 speakers, with discussions centered on deploying AI across governance, agriculture, education, and the creative industries.

Among the key announcements was the launch of the revamped AI-enabled government portal, kwarastate.gov.ng, designed to modernize citizen services and enhance transparency. The state also revealed a partnership with the Midlothian Angels Network (USA), which will provide Ilorin-based startups with direct access to U.S. capital markets, mentorship, and incorporation support. In addition, the Kwara AI Hackathon, powered by Lovable, attracted more than 60 entries, with 15 finalists and three winning teams each receiving ₦300,000 in seed funding.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq described the summit as a “statement of purpose,” pledging to create policy, institutional, and investment pathways that transform local ideas into jobs and scalable solutions. The Managing Director of the Ilorin Innovation Hub, Temi Kolawole, praised the collaboration between government, academia, and investors, calling it a model for Nigeria’s growing tech ecosystem.

Partners in the summit included IHS Towers, Lovable, Zoho, Awarri, UNDP, NCAIR, KWASU, and CWG, underscoring the broad coalition supporting Kwara’s digital transformation. Organizers emphasized that the summit marks the beginning of sustained initiatives to position Kwara as a leading hub for AI and innovation in West Africa.