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Nigeria’s Bold AI Vision Anchored in Renewed Hope Agenda
The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s determination to become a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) emphasizing that the nation’s digital ambition aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
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Speaking during a plenary session themed “Technology, Migration & Trade Representation” at the Stakeholders’ Interactive Engagement with the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance held at the State House, Abuja, Abdullahi outlined Nigeria’s strategic roadmap for emerging technologies.
He explained that Priority Seven of President Tinubu’s agenda focuses on accelerating industrialization, digitalization, creative industries, manufacturing, and innovation—a foundation that guides NITDA’s mission to transform Nigeria into a digital powerhouse in Africa.
Building Infrastructure and National AI Capacity
At the core of this transformation, Abdullahi noted, is the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which provides a clear blueprint for Nigeria’s AI-driven future.
He described the first priority as building foundational infrastructure that enables Nigeria to play a meaningful role in the AI ecosystem. This includes expanding broadband connectivity, developing sovereign cloud platforms, and creating clean and representative national datasets.
Highlighting a major milestone, Abdullahi said:
“For us, it is important that our languages, culture, and people are represented in the AI of the future. That is why we built Nigeria’s own multilingual large language model — to ensure that technology reflects our identity and diversity.”
Empowering Startups and Women Innovators
The NITDA boss stressed the importance of nurturing innovation through a vibrant startup ecosystem, guided by the Nigerian Startup Act, which provides a legal and institutional framework for sustainable growth.
“Innovation does not happen in isolation,” Abdullahi explained.
“You need an ecosystem that connects government, innovators, investors, and global partners. Through our startup policies, we are deliberately prioritizing inclusivity and giving women founders the space to thrive.”
AI for Sectoral Transformation
Abdullahi also underscored the role of AI in revolutionizing healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, and education — driving productivity and improving livelihoods.
“With AI, we can achieve ten times the productivity we are seeing today,” he said.
“Imagine our doctors diagnosing faster, our farmers predicting yields better, and our manufacturers reducing inefficiencies. That is the kind of leap Nigeria is preparing for.”
Inclusivity and Responsible AI Governance
Emphasizing inclusivity as a key pillar, Abdullahi warned that “if technology is not designed with inclusivity in mind, vulnerable groups could be left behind.”
He stated that NITDA insists on at least 40% women representation in all AI initiatives to ensure equity and social balance.
On governance, Abdullahi revealed that Nigeria is co-creating its AI governance framework with industry stakeholders to balance innovation and regulation.
“We cannot build this future in silos. We are working hand in hand with innovators, industry leaders, and the global community to create policies that safeguard innovation while protecting citizens.”
Nigeria’s Message to the World
Abdullahi concluded by affirming that Nigeria is not waiting to be carried along in the global AI revolution.
“Our journey is not just about technology — it is about people, prosperity, and positioning Nigeria as a global leader in shaping the future of artificial intelligence.”
