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By Chinenye Anuforo
Technology leaders at the 2025 West Africa Telecommunications Infrastructure Summit & Exhibition (WATISE) have stressed that collaboration and policy reform are critical to unlocking the region’s digital economy and positioning it for global competitiveness.
The summit, which took place in Lagos recently, convened regulators, telecom operators, fintech innovators, and technology stakeholders under the theme “Digitalising West African Economy: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities for Critical Stakeholders.”
In his address, Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), described telecommunications as the backbone of the digital economy, driving banking, commerce, education, healthcare, and emergency response. He noted that investments in the sector have surged to their highest levels since before COVID-19, but warned that vandalism, multiple taxation, and Right of Way restrictions continue to undermine progress.
Adebayo commended the Federal Government’s planned tax reforms, expected to eliminate more than 56 levies by January 2026, and called for harmonised policies across ECOWAS to enable faster and wider digital infrastructure rollout.
Reiterating, Mr. Tony Emoekpere, President of the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), said the next decade will determine West Africa’s role in the global digital economy. “If we build the infrastructure, harmonise policies, and encourage collaboration, we will unlock unprecedented growth, create millions of jobs, and give our young population the tools to compete globally,” he said.
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The fintech sector also featured prominently in discussions. Dr. Nnenna Achife of AfriGo Payment Financial Services explained how AfriGo is lowering transaction costs, enabling same-day settlements, and expanding access to payments even in areas with limited internet connectivity. She highlighted the company’s role in supporting welfare programs and promoting financial inclusion through affordable electronic payment options.
Mr. Adewunmi Adesina, Managing Director of Trade Lenda, emphasised the importance of collective action. He urged governments to invest in infrastructure and digital policies while private players focus on building scalable platforms for underserved populations.
“Entrepreneurs must continue to innovate boldly, solving local problems with global ambition,” he said.
Warning of risks of exclusion, Ms. Jameelah Sharrieff-Ayedun, Vice President of FintechNGR and CEO of CreditRegistry, cautioned against digital apartheid, noting that millions could remain locked out of the formal economy without broader access to data and credit through innovative use of alternative sources such as mobile and e-commerce activity.
Panel sessions led by Mr. Chidi Ajuzie of WTES Project Limited and robotic engineer Mrs. Racheal Anorue highlighted concerns over high USSD costs, poor connectivity, and the vulnerabilities of mobile agents. Speakers agreed that stronger collaboration, public sensitisation, and technology-driven security would be vital for sustainable growth.
As WATISE 2025 concluded, delegates expressed optimism that with continued investment, harmonised policies, and inclusive strategies, West Africa’s telecom and fintech sectors could drive a new wave of economic transformation across the sub-region.
