The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijan
has announced that the federal government is taking a leading role in advancing Artificial Intelligence adoption in Nigeria to set an example for the private sector.
This was disclosed by Tijani during a one-day AI stakeholders engagement in Abuja, on Monday, according to Nairametrics.
He emphasized that while some believe AI should be spearheaded by private enterprises, the government’s involvement is crucial for shaping policy and defining AI’s role in society.
The Minister highlighted that no country globally has succeeded in AI without significant government participation.
“If we get it right in the public sector, it will permeate the private sector. With time, the adoption and deployment of AI will not only transform our national lives but will shape the future of things in our country,” he said.
Tijani noted that the government is prioritizing digital services in the public sector to facilitate seamless AI adoption, enhance productivity, and boost Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
He urged Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of the Federal Government to fully embrace AI technology.
“Artificial intelligence has always been with us, however, our focus is that we want it to drive prosperity in Nigeria. The policy to drive its adoption and deployment will be crafted to the benefit of all,” he said.
According to him, democratizing AI deployment will impact positively on the growth and development of the country.
In his remarks, the Director-General of NITDA, Malam Kashifu Inuwa, said the gathering was aimed at consolidating the spirit of co-creation adopted by the government to ensure seamless adoption and deployment of AI.
Inuwa stated that no country can afford to lag in AI adoption, underscoring the need for Nigeria to make informed decisions about its AI strategy.
He explained that the government is employing a co-creation approach to bridge the gap between AI policy design and implementation.
Additionally, he noted that after co-creation, the government will engage in socializing the policy design to ensure all key stakeholders are well-prepared for effective execution.
“The common man needs artificial intelligence to improve his productivity, so, inclusivity is part of the strategy.
“Every Nigerian needs to be digitally visible, especially as the country is blessed with a vibrant youth population and talent. This will, significantly, improve our agriculture, health, education, and security,” he said.
Inuwa further explained that critical issues related to infrastructure and data must capture the attention of stakeholders.
He emphasized the need to develop and leverage these elements as the core drivers of AI innovation.
The Communications Ministry has recently released Nigeria’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy document, which is currently under review by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). Once finalized, it will be adopted as a national policy to guide all government efforts in AI.
Additionally, the government has established the AI Collective to foster collaboration on research, projects, hackathons, and seminars, aiming to develop an inclusive approach to Nigeria’s AI initiatives.
