A global summit on artificial intelligence and innovation is set to spotlight the urgent need for Africa to translate research into tangible economic value, as stakeholders converge to address gaps in venture creation and digital transformation.
The AI & Babcock Innovation Venture (BIV) Commercialization Summit 2026, scheduled to hold in April at Babcock University in Ilishan-Remo, will bring together policymakers, technology experts and entrepreneurs to examine how artificial intelligence can drive sustainable development across the continent.
Discussions at the summit are expected to centre on longstanding challenges within Africa’s innovation ecosystem, particularly the disconnect between academic research and real-world application.
Experts say this gap has limited the continent’s ability to fully harness emerging technologies for industrial growth, job creation and global competitiveness.
Vice-Chancellor of the university, Afolarin Olutunde Ojewole, noted that institutions must move beyond theory-driven education to embrace practical, skills-based learning that prepares graduates for a rapidly evolving digital economy.
According to him, innovation and problem-solving capabilities are becoming more critical than traditional academic credentials.
A major focus of the summit will be how universities can serve as engines of enterprise by supporting the commercialisation of research outputs.
Analysts argue that without structured pathways for turning ideas into viable businesses, many innovations risk remaining within academic circles without delivering economic impact.
The event also reflects broader national ambitions to position Nigeria as a key player in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
As global competition intensifies, stakeholders are increasingly calling for stronger collaboration between government, academia and the private sector to build a resilient innovation-driven economy.
Government participation, including representation from federal stakeholders such as Kingsley T. Udeh, signals growing policy interest in fostering partnerships that can unlock funding, infrastructure and regulatory support for innovation.
Industry experts expected at the summit will contribute perspectives on financing, scaling startups and navigating the global technology landscape.
Observers note that access to capital, limited infrastructure and regulatory bottlenecks remain key barriers to venture growth across Africa.
With participation open to students, researchers and industry players, the summit is anticipated to generate policy-relevant discussions and practical recommendations on how artificial intelligence can be leveraged to drive inclusive growth, entrepreneurship and long-term economic resilience across the continent.
Writing by Niran Odufayo