Key stakeholders across telecommunications, technology and digital business are set to converge in Lagos as the West Africa Telecommunications Infrastructure Summit and Exhibition returns for its 2026 edition with a sharp focus on artificial intelligence and next-generation network resilience.
The event, branded WATISE 4.0, will take place on June 18 at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, bringing together telecom operators, regulators, policymakers, technology companies and digital startups from across West Africa. This year’s theme is, “The Resilient AI Fabric: Ensuring Trust, Integrity, And Sustainability In Next-Generation Network Infrastructure.”
Brandspur Brand News understands that the summit will explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping telecoms infrastructure management, enterprise operations and emerging digital services, as networks evolve toward more complex, AI-driven architectures. Discussions are expected to centre on trust, security and long-term sustainability as operators increasingly rely on intelligent systems to run critical infrastructure.
The 2026 edition is being hosted by TechnologyMirror and will feature a keynote address by Aminu Maida, executive vice chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission. His address is expected to highlight regulatory priorities and the role of AI in strengthening Nigeria’s digital economy.
Organisers confirmed that the summit has received industry backing from the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria, with ICTLOCA serving as a technical partner. Industry leaders, including Gbenga Adebayo and Tony Emokpere, are expected to participate in high-level sessions.
Beyond telecommunications, WATISE 4.0 will also examine the growing application of AI in financial technology, particularly in fraud detection, cybersecurity, transaction monitoring and compliance with anti-money laundering and know-your-customer requirements. Experts will discuss how intelligent systems are being deployed to safeguard digital platforms against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.
According to organisers, the programme will feature an issue-based technical paper, a focused panel discussion, a fireside chat with industry leaders and a dedicated awards segment recognising outstanding contributions across telecoms and digital infrastructure. Sponsors for the event include the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria, with additional industry players expected to come on board.
As artificial intelligence becomes central to the design of future networks, including early conversations around 6G, WATISE 4.0 is positioning itself as a key platform for shaping policy, investment and technical direction across West Africa’s fast-evolving digital landscape.
