Abuja, Nigeria – The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced an initiative to unify 120 Nigerian researchers and startups, alongside other key players in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) space. This effort aims to craft a comprehensive framework for AI adoption across the nation. The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, revealed this ambitious plan, setting the stage for the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy Workshop scheduled from April 15th to 18th, 2024, in Abuja.
This workshop is designed to be a collaborative effort to forge a multi-year strategy and action plan for the research, application, and broad adoption of AI technologies in Nigeria. Dr. Tijani emphasized that the outcome of this strategic session would lay the groundwork for leveraging AI to enhance the quality of life for Nigerians and stimulate economic growth.
Nigeria’s AI Voyage
Dr. Tijani outlined the significant strides made in Nigeria’s AI journey since his appointment, highlighting the establishment of foundational initiatives aimed at integrating AI into national development strategies. These initiatives include the National Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme (NAIRS) and the Fourth Industrial Revolution Technology Application (4IRTA) project, which have both sought to incorporate AI into various sectors such as education, agriculture, and healthcare.
The Path Ahead
With the initial phases set in motion, the upcoming workshop marks a pivotal next step in Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing AI. By bringing together the country’s top AI minds, the government aims to create a cohesive and impactful AI strategy that will drive future technological and economic development.
Global Nigerian Talent
In a testament to the global recognition of Nigerian talent in the AI field, Dr. Tijani noted that over 6,000 AI researchers of Nigerian descent, spread across the globe, have been identified as potential contributors to the nation’s AI initiatives. This global network of Nigerian AI professionals is expected to play a crucial role in realizing the vision of making Nigeria a forefront player in AI technology, fostering innovation, and creating job opportunities through smart infrastructure deployment.
As Nigeria prepares to host this landmark workshop, the anticipation grows for the development of a robust AI framework that will guide the nation’s technological advancements and economic strategies in the coming years.
