Nigeria is preparing to launch new regulatory AI sandboxes that will allow innovators to safely test artificial intelligence systems while maintaining strict data protection standards. This initiative, led by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), was unveiled during a one-day workshop in Abuja titled Co-Creation Lab on Africa Sandboxes for AI.
The event brought together stakeholders across the tech and policy space, including representatives from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), to explore how sandboxes could serve as safe testing environments for AI. The NDPC’s efforts are aligned with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA), which guides the ethical use of data in digital innovation.
“Sandboxes aim to encourage responsible AI, foster compliance with the NDPA, and promote trust, fairness, accountability, and transparency,” said Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the NDPC’s National Commissioner, represented by Ms. Adaobi Nwankwo, Head of the Commission’s Innovation Unit. He explained that these sandbox models are intended to help developers and data scientists innovate responsibly while considering Africa’s unique social and regulatory contexts.
Stakeholders Push for Unified Regulation Across Africa
Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, also addressed the event, urging a collaborative approach to policymaking. Represented by Mr. Babagana Digima, Maida acknowledged that AI holds transformative potential for infrastructure, public services, and governance, but warned that regulation must evolve just as rapidly.
“Sandboxes provide a controlled environment for innovators to test AI under regulatory supervision. This encourages collaborative learning, risk mitigation, and evidence-based policymaking,” he said. According to Maida, these efforts align with Nigeria’s broader National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and Digital Economy Policy.
There was also a strong call for regional cooperation. Dr. Jimson Olufuye, Principal Consultant at Kontemporary Konsulting, emphasised the need for regulatory harmonisation across African countries.
“We need to optimise data protection processes and scale products across West Africa,” he said, adding that such sandboxes must support cross-border AI systems embedded with strong governance protocols.
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