Organisers of the Ibadan Startup Festival (ISF) plan to use the fourth annual event to promote startup growth, innovation, and job creation in emerging markets.
The Convener of ISF, Mr David Adeleke, announced at a news conference in Ibadan that the one-day festival will take place on Nov. 28 at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
Adeleke noted that the festival, which began four years ago with 100 participants, has become a major platform for promoting entrepreneurship and job creation in Oyo State, and he attributed this growth to support from the Oyo State Government, which has positioned the state as a thriving technology hub with increasing global recognition.
He stated that the 2026 edition will focus on how individuals and businesses can leverage technology, especially Artificial Intelligence (AI), to scale their operations.
He emphasised that the conference is open to more than just tech professionals.
“This year, we aim to show everyone how to use technology, especially AI, to enhance their existing work.
“There will be masterclasses, fireside chats, and startup pitch sessions open to all,” he said.
He further said the event will also include a gala and awards night, organised in partnership with the state government. honour startups and individuals building impactful solutions from Ibadan and other emerging markets.
The Senior Special Assistant to Gov. Seyi Makinde on ICT, Mr Bayo Akande, Jnr., said Ibadan’s tech ecosystem has grown annually because of enabling infrastructure, such as extensive fibre-optic networks and Independent Power Projects.
Akande emphasised the importance of public-private collaboration, noting that government creates the enabling environment while the private sector drives innovation. Organisers chose to build in Ibadan rather than Lagos, which he described as a saturated market.
Mr Tunde Buremo, CEO of Cardify and programme partner, said the company chose Ibadan for its headquarters to show that business success does not depend solely on location.
Buremo praised Makinde for fostering a supportive business environment and described the festival as an alternative learning platform that empowers youth and supports innovation and sustainable development.
The oThe organisers invited tech enthusiasts, startup founders, investors, students, and the general public to participate and register on the official Ibadan Startup Fest website.
