The Federal Executive Council (FEC), chaired by President Bola Tinubu, has approved two groundbreaking initiatives aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s digital transformation, the Nigeria Universal Communication Access Project and the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Trust. These initiatives are expected to enhance broadband access, foster AI innovation, and unlock economic opportunities for millions of Nigerians.
Built on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, these projects align with the infrastructure pillar of the Ministry’s Strategic Blueprint. They also complement Project Bridge, the government’s ambitious plan to lay 90,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable across the country. According to Nairametrics, the Nigeria Universal Communication Access Project will extend connectivity to over 21 million Nigerians in underserved regions, closing the digital divide and ensuring that more people benefit from the growing digital economy.
Meanwhile, the National AI Trust is designed to position Nigeria as a hub for AI research, development, and ethical deployment. The AI initiative is particularly significant as artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries globally. By fostering AI-driven solutions, Nigeria aims to drive economic expansion, create job opportunities, and boost innovation in key sectors such as healthcare, finance, agriculture, and education. The country has already taken steps toward AI adoption with the launch of Service-Wise GPT, an AI-powered tool designed to improve public service delivery. This tool automates administrative workflows, assists in policy drafting, and simplifies access to government information
Additionally, the establishment of Wini University, Nigeria’s first AI-focused institution in Epe, Lagos demonstrates the government’s commitment to equipping young Nigerians with advanced AI skills. As AI adoption grows, experts believe it could significantly contribute to economic development.
A report titled ‘The Digital Opportunity of Sub-Saharan Africa’ suggests that AI could add over $30 billion to the region’s economy in the next decade. For businesses and startups, these initiatives present major opportunities. Expanded broadband access will enable enterprises to reach new markets, optimize operations, and develop innovative solutions. Similarly, AI-focused policies will make Nigeria an attractive destination for AI research and development, empowering startups to build scalable, AI-powered solutions for both local and global markets.
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