Abuja and Lagos have moved up two places each in the 2025 IMD Smart City Index, now ranking 133rd and 135th respectively out of 142 cities assessed globally.
The index, released by the IMD Smart City Observatory in collaboration with the Singapore University of Technology and Design, reflects modest but measurable progress in Nigeria’s efforts toward digital governance and smart infrastructure.
Despite the improvement, both cities retained a C grade, indicating that while steps are being taken, they still lag behind regional frontrunners.
“It’s encouraging to see upward movement, but the pace of change must accelerate,” said a policy expert on urban innovation.
Cairo emerged as Africa’s top performer at 117th, earning a CC grade, followed by Algiers at 128th.
Analysts point to lingering gaps in urban mobility, sustainability, and citizen engagement as major barriers to further advancement.
“We need stronger policies and bolder investment in digital solutions to drive real smart city transformation,” said a Lagos-based urban planner.
The IMD report serves as a benchmark for how cities are adapting to modern challenges through technology, governance, and citizen-centric planning.
