Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, the managing director and group chief executive officer of Zenith Bank Plc, has called for accelerated investment in technological capability across Africa, noting that artificial intelligence, blockchain, robotics and renewable energy innovation will redefine global competitiveness in the coming years.

Delivering the keynote at the Zenith Bank Tech Fair 2025, Umeoji referenced global data showing that: 90% of the world’s data was created in the last two years; AI is projected to grow at 28% CAGR through 2030; the global blockchain market will exceed $300 billion by 2030, adding that:

“Nigeria is among the top three countries worldwide in cryptocurrency adoption, with $50 billion in transactions recorded in one year.

She also cited developments such as: European banks working on Euro-denominated stablecoins, the United States crafting digital-asset regulatory frameworks, and Asia hosting a “robotics Olympics” featuring 500 life-like robots competing in activities ranging from football to medical sorting.

“These realities show that the world is advancing at an unprecedented speed. Any business that fails to innovate will become extinct,” she warned.

Using personal examples, including a deepfake impersonation of her used to promote a fake investment scheme, Umeoji stressed the dual nature of AI as both a breakthrough technology and a cybersecurity threat.

She added that Zenith Bank is strengthening its infrastructure to stay ahead, including upgrading its core banking system to Oracle Flexcube, developing an Afrex portal for cross-border African trade, and continuing to invest in youth-focused ICT centres across universities.

“The future belongs to those who innovate boldly. Zenith Bank stands ready to support startups, entrepreneurs and tech talent in turning their ideas into world-changing solutions,” she said.