The Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) has announced that its 2026 International Conference, branded RISE 2026, will serve as a strategic platform for advancing Nigeria’s digital transformation and promoting innovation as a catalyst for sustainable economic growth.
Scheduled to take place in Jos, Plateau State, the conference will bring together policymakers, technology experts, researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, and development partners to explore how emerging technologies can strengthen economic resilience and drive inclusive national development.
Speaking during the official unveiling of the event in Lagos, NCS President, Muhammad Aliyu, said this year’s conference carries the theme: “Digital Innovation and Emerging Technologies for Inclusive Growth, Sustainable Development and Economic Resilience.”
According to Aliyu, the conference is designed to go beyond traditional industry discussions by creating opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and practical solutions to Nigeria’s digital challenges.
Participants will examine a broad range of technology-driven topics, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, blockchain, financial technology (fintech), cloud computing, digital health, educational technology, robotics, big data, and smart governance. These discussions are expected to generate ideas that can support innovation, improve public services, and expand Nigeria’s digital economy.
More than 2,000 delegates are expected to attend the event, including government officials, business executives, technology innovators, academics, startup founders, development organisations, and international experts. The conference will also feature participation from the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, ICT regulators, and leaders of computer societies from across Africa.
Aliyu explained that selecting Jos as the host city reflects the society’s commitment to promoting regional innovation ecosystems and encouraging nationwide participation in digital development initiatives. He noted that Plateau State’s improving digital infrastructure, growing innovation community, and peaceful environment make it an ideal venue for the international gathering.
The programme will include policy dialogues, executive leadership forums, innovation exhibitions, technical paper presentations, startup showcases, youth hackathons, and networking sessions aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.
NCS Deputy President, Dr. Charles Onyeukwu, said Africa must leverage knowledge, research, and innovation to become a stronger participant in the global digital economy. He stressed that emerging technologies present new opportunities for economic growth, industrial development, and improved competitiveness across the continent.
The conference will also spotlight young technology talent through the Information Technology Whizkid Competition, which attracted more than 700 secondary school students nationwide. Finalists will compete during the conference in Jos, reflecting the society’s commitment to developing the next generation of Nigerian technology professionals.
Chairman of the NCS Plateau State Chapter, Dr. Yinka Oyerinde, assured participants that adequate internet connectivity, stable electricity, transportation, accommodation, and other essential facilities would be available throughout the event.
The National President of the Nigerian Association of Computing Students, Samuel Ojo, described the conference as an important platform for young innovators to showcase research, exchange ideas, and build partnerships with government, academia, and industry. He expressed confidence that the event would strengthen Nigeria’s digital competitiveness while supporting long-term economic resilience and innovation-led development.
