The Federal Government has reiterated that Nigeria’s development agenda and economic growth can be significantly accelerated by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) as a transformative tool.
This assertion was made by the permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Engr. Faruk Yusuf Yaboduring the opening technical session of the 12th National Council on Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) in Makurdi, Benue State.
Themed “Accelerating the Adoption of Artificial Intelligence through Policy and Innovation for Sustainable Development in Nigeria,” the session highlighted the pivotal role of AI in driving innovation and sustainable development across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, environmental protection, and infrastructure.
Yabo emphasised that in recent years, the Federal Ministry has taken bold initiatives to position Nigeria as a leader in AI. Key efforts include the establishment of the National Centre for AI and Robotics (NCAIR), a state-of-the-art facility for research in AI, robotics and emerging technologies. “This facility underscores the government’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s digital economy in alignment with the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) 2020-2030,” he stated.
Additionally, the ministry’s 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative aims to train three million digital professionals, creating a talent hub for AI applications. The Nigeria AI Research Scheme (NAIRS) has also provided grants to 45 startups and researchers across critical sectors, fostering an ecosystem of innovation.
Nigeria’s efforts extend beyond its borders. In 2023, the country joined the Bletchley Declaration on AI alongside nations like the UK and France, committing to ethical and secure AI development. Nigeria is also a member of the U.S.-led coalition to design AI as a tool for sustainable progress.
Yabo further highlighted the government’s infrastructure efforts, such as the right-of-way policy that facilitates fibre optic deployment to enhance connectivity nationwide. He expressed optimism about the potential of AI in addressing developmental challenges and achieving the goals of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda.
The ongoing council meeting serves as a platform to review the implementation of resolutions from the 11th session and set the stage for future advancements. Yabo extended gratitude to Benue State’s leadership, including Governor Hyacinth Iormen Alia, for its commitment to hosting the event and embracing digital innovation.
The state’s deputy governor, Dr. Sam Ode reiterated the importance of digital transformation, citing the state’s proactive steps, such as sending delegations to China, Kigali and Dubai to gain insights into ICT growth strategies. The state’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy has also embarked on a mission to train 50,000 youths in digital skills, with the first batch of 3,000 trainees set to graduate soon, with NITDA certification.
As Nigeria takes these strides, the meeting underscored the collective effort required to harness AI’s potential in achieving national development goals.
