Nigeria’s move to build a responsible artificial intelligence (AI) future is taking shape — and this time, the process is being driven by local innovators rather than policymakers alone.
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) says it is co-creating the country’s AI governance framework alongside startups, researchers, and industry experts to ensure that technological growth remains inclusive and secure. Speaking at a plenary session themed “Technology, Migration & Trade Representation” during an engagement with the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance at the State House in Abuja, NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, said the approach marks a shift from traditional top-down policymaking.
“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,” Inuwa explained.
A Renewed Hope for Inclusive AI Growth
Inuwa emphasised that the new AI strategy aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which positions technology as a pillar for economic diversification and inclusive growth.
According to him, the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy’s roadmap reflects this vision by steering NITDA’s efforts to transform Nigeria into Africa’s most dynamic digital economy.
He said the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy aims to strengthen infrastructure, expand internet connectivity, and establish sovereign cloud platforms. It also seeks to build national datasets that represent Nigeria’s cultural and linguistic diversity in global AI systems.
Highlighting progress, Inuwa cited the launch of Nigeria’s National Multilingual Large Language Model (LLM) in New York as a major milestone in creating homegrown AI solutions.“For us, it is important that our languages, our culture, and our people are represented in the AI of the future,” he noted.
He also added that inclusivity remains central to NITDA’s innovation agenda, with all programmes mandating at least 40% participation by women. Through the Nigerian Startup Act, the government continues to provide support for innovators and founders across various sectors.
AI for Everyday Transformation
Inuwa explained that artificial intelligence is being integrated across healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, and education to boost efficiency and productivity nationwide.
“With AI, our doctors can diagnose faster, our farmers can predict yields better, and our manufacturers can eliminate inefficiencies. That’s the kind of leap Nigeria is preparing for,” he said.He stressed that AI is not here to replace human effort but to amplify it, helping professionals work smarter and deliver better results.
NITDA believes that a collaborative approach to AI policymaking will help Nigeria balance innovation and protection.“Our journey is not just about technology, it’s about people, prosperity, and positioning Nigeria as a global leader in shaping the AI future,” Inuwa concluded.
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