Nigeria reimagining its AI strategy

Nigeria's Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, recently shared insights on the country's reimagined Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategy at the World Economic Forum in Davos. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa, Minister Tijani highlighted the critical role of digital technology in driving economic growth and transforming key sectors in Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of leveraging tech talents to propel the country forward. Minister Tijani underscored that the digital economy is not a separate entity but an integral part of the overall economy. He explained that the implementation of digital technologies has sparked a revolution, similar to past industrial revolutions, reshaping societies and livelihoods. To foster development, enhance competitiveness, and cater to the needs of the populace, prioritizing digital technology is essential. This strategic shift provides Africa, particularly countries like Nigeria, with a remarkable opportunity to diversify their economies. The minister pointed out the significance of applying digital technology across different sectors such as agriculture, education, and public health. In agriculture, technological innovation is vital for boosting productivity, as seen in the government's initiative to cultivate half a million acres of land. Similarly, in education, embracing digital solutions can enhance learning outcomes and support teachers in delivering quality education. Moreover, digital technology plays a crucial role in addressing public health challenges, highlighting the importance of connectivity and technological advancements. Minister Tijani highlighted artificial intelligence (AI) as a top priority technology, projecting increased amplification in 2024. Despite acknowledging Nigeria's delayed investment in AI breakthroughs, he emphasized the country's focus on utilizing AI to drive development goals in healthcare and education. The government is actively engaging experts and stakeholders to reimagine Nigeria's AI strategy, ensuring the technology's widespread application to benefit society at large. Furthermore, the minister discussed the dual nature of AI, addressing its potential risks, including misinformation, security threats, and data protection concerns. To safeguard Nigeria's ecosystem, Minister Tijani stressed the importance of striking a balance between benefitting from AI's transformative power and mitigating associated risks. He highlighted the government's participation in global conversations and safety summits focused on AI governance and emphasized the need to mainstream AI knowledge across governmental structures. In the context of attracting investments, Minister Tijani acknowledged Nigeria's growing appeal to private equity players in the tech sector, aligning with other prominent African countries like Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt. He highlighted the government's commitment to creating an enabling environment for investors, promoting a business-friendly ecosystem. The minister reassured potential investors of Nigeria's openness to business, citing the president's pro-business background and track record of fostering economic growth. As Nigeria continues to position itself as a hub for digital innovation and technological advancement, Minister Tijani's proactive approach to reimagining the country's AI strategy underscores the government's commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable development and economic growth.