Lagos: Nigeria has taken a significant step toward becoming a leader in Artificial Intelligence (AI) with the launch of a National AI Strategy, says Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy. Tijani made this known at the launch of the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Collective Industry (NAICI) in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the AI Collective is a community of practice charged with supporting strategy development, and ensuring ethics and safety are central to the advancement of AI in Nigeria. Tijani highlighted that the National AI Strategy was developed collaboratively with input from government, academia, and industry, showcasing Nigeria’s unique approach to AI strategy development which has garnered international recognition.
He further stated that the government has taken concrete steps to support AI development, including funding research projects and establishing partnerships with private sector companies. With its strategic location, large population, and growing economy, Nigeria is positioning itself as a hub for AI in West Africa, aiming to serve as a model for other African countries and contribute to the continent’s economic development.
Tijani emphasized the importance of building a community of practice around AI and encouraging collaboration between industry, academia, and government. He noted the potential for AI to exacerbate gaps between nations in terms of productivity but urged stakeholders to work together to achieve Nigeria’s AI ambitions and ensure shared benefits.
Dr. Olubayo Akanmbi, CEO of Data Science Nigeria (DSN), outlined key areas of focus for the AI Collective, including research and development, sector-specific innovation, policy advocacy, and international collaboration. Akanmbi announced the launch of the Diaspora Connect platform, enabling Nigerians abroad to contribute to AI development in the country.
Dr. Olayinka David-West, Dean of Information Systems at Lagos Business School, highlighted key aspects of Nigeria’s AI Strategy, focusing on leveraging technical innovation, local talent, and strategic collaboration. The strategy revolves around infrastructure development, building a world-class AI ecosystem, sectoral AI adoption, responsible AI development, and a robust government framework, aiming to improve educational and healthcare outcomes and enhance the standard of living.
