Nigeria launched ambitious initiative to advance AI research and development

The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bosun Tijani, has unveiled a visionary initiative as part of moves towards harnessing the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI).

Named "Co-creating a National Artificial Intelligence Strategy for Nigeria," this initiative sets out to cultivate a cadre of exceptional Nigerian researchers spread across the global landscape of AI innovation.

The central objective according to the Minister in a recent LinkedIn social media post, is to lay the foundation for a comprehensive national strategy that leverages AI for sustainable development in Nigeria. The initiative is particularly timely, given the profound projections put forth by the International Finance Corporation, which suggests that strategic integration of AI could contribute a staggering $234 billion to Africa's GDP by 2030.

With its burgeoning technology startup ecosystem, Nigeria has stood out, capturing 25% of the impressive $1.3 billion funding allocated to African tech startups in the year 2021. Dr. Bosun Tijani's proactive approach indicates that Nigeria, a beacon of innovation on the African continent, is poised to harness AI as a catalyst for economic diversification and inclusive growth.

Dr. Tijani's LinkedIn post announcing this initiative has garnered widespread attention and commendation from Nigerians who recognize the magnitude of this bold step. The enthusiastic response underscores the hunger for technological progress and innovation within the Nigerian community.

However, as the journey into AI advances, it is important to acknowledge that along with its vast opportunities come complex challenges. The integration of AI into critical sectors such as healthcare, finance, and security raises concerns about ethics, bias, transparency, job automation, and privacy. To navigate these challenges effectively, policymakers and researchers emphasize the significance of a human-centred approach.

Creating AI systems that are equitable and accountable to all segments of society, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, is an imperative shared by both policymakers and researchers.

Ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI governance is not just a technical challenge but a moral obligation that underscores the responsible use of this transformative technology.

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye