The Vice-Chancellor, Caleb University, Imota, Lagos State, Prof. Olalekan Asikhia, has identified digital transformation as a crucial factor in driving inclusive and sustainable development across Africa.

Speaking at the 2026 Trinity University/Industry Management Leadership Production Development conference at Trinity University, Yaba, Lagos, Asikhia emphasised that while the potential for digital transformation is immense, its success hinges on strong governance infrastructure and inclusive implementation strategies.

The vice-chancellor, who was the keynote speaker, noted that governance and institutional weaknesses have continued to undermine digital transformation efforts, leading to fragmented and unsustainable outcomes.

He stressed the need for academic-industry collaboration, arguing that practical solutions must be co-designed by researchers and practitioners to ensure real-world impact.

He noted that bridging the digital divide remains critical, adding that persistent challenges such as unreliable electricity, high data costs, and low digital literacy exclude vulnerable populations from digital opportunities.

Without addressing these barriers, Africa risks leaving large segments of its population behind in the digital era.

Asikhia submitted that digital transformation can accelerate sustainable development, but only if Africa tackles structural challenges and ensures inclusivity at every stage.

He noted that digital transformation is not just about technology, but about creating a more equitable and sustainable future for all Africans.

On his part, the Vice-Chancellor of Trinity University, Yaba, Lagos, Prof. Clement Kolawole, said Africa has the potential to bypass traditional development hurdles and fast-track sustainable progress through digital transformation.

Kolawole maintained that innovation, youth empowerment, and strong partnerships are keys to unlocking the future, highlighting how digital transformation is already reshaping economies by driving inclusive growth, creating opportunities, and sparking innovation across multiple sectors.

The VC described the gathering as timely, noting that Africa’s youthful population and expanded technology ecosystem have unique advantages that could help the continent leapfrog conventional development pathways.

“This conference will inspire action, strengthen partnerships, and unlock innovations for inclusive growth and sustainable development across Africa,” he said.

Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Olatubosun Alake, stressed the need for stronger synergy between academia and industry to effectively address challenges to economic transformation and the achievement of sustainable development in Africa.

The commissioner, who was represented by Chief Programme Analyst, Oracle Implementation, Oshinaike Edward, said academic institutions drove research and ideas, while industry ensured implementation, scalability, and impact.

“This is not just a conference, it is a decisive call to bridge the academic and industry gap; align research with real-world needs, and deliver innovative and scalable solutions for sustainable growth and global competitiveness,” he said.

Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Dr Folakemi Ohunakin, said across Africa, digital transformation is no longer a distant aspiration, but an unfolding reality that is reshaping economies, governance systems, education, healthcare, and social interactions.

She added that the true measure of this transformation lies not merely in technological advancement, but in how it improves lives across all segments of society.