Lagos Ranked World’s Fastest-Growing Emerging Tech Ecosystem in 2025
Lagos, Nigeria, has been named the world’s fastest-growing emerging tech ecosystem for 2025, according to the latest report by Dealroom and the Global Tech Ecosystem Index (GTEI). The report highlights Lagos’ remarkable rise as a global innovation hub, outpacing Istanbul in Turkey, Pune and Mumbai in India, and Belo Horizonte in Brazil.
The study identifies Lagos as a leading force in Africa’s digital transformation, fueled by rapid expansion in fintech, edtech, healthtech, and artificial intelligence. Its youthful population, growing venture capital interest, and thriving startup culture have propelled it ahead of other notable cities such as Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, Johannesburg in South Africa, Ho Chi Minh in Vietnam, and Kyiv in Ukraine.
According to the report, the Top 20 Fastest-Growing Emerging Tech Ecosystems in the World for 2025 include cities from across Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America.
Following Lagos at the top are Istanbul (Turkey), Pune (India), Belo Horizonte (Brazil), Mumbai (India), Curitiba (Brazil), Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), Johannesburg (South Africa), Chennai (India), Ho Chi Minh (Vietnam), Kyiv (Ukraine), Mexico City (Mexico), Vilnius (Lithuania), Jakarta (Indonesia), Bengaluru (India), Zagreb (Croatia), Dhaka (Bangladesh), Bangkok (Thailand), Santiago de Chile (Chile), and Kampala (Uganda).
The report underscores that these cities represent the new centers of innovation, where technology is driving inclusive economic growth and attracting international investors. Lagos’ top ranking not only reaffirms Nigeria’s growing influence in the global tech landscape but also signals the continent’s readiness to compete in the evolving digital economy.
Dealroom and GTEI noted that Lagos’ momentum is a result of consistent startup success stories, strategic public-private collaborations, and increased support from both local and international venture funds. As the city continues to evolve as Africa’s tech capital, analysts believe its success story could serve as a model for emerging economies seeking to leverage technology for sustainable development.
