NIGERIA EYES BIGGER SHARE OF AFRICA’S $1TN AI ECONOMY

Nigeria is positioning itself to capture a larger share of Africa’s projected $1 trillion artificial intelligence economy, as the Federal Government steps up efforts to strengthen the country’s digital infrastructure, skills, and innovation ecosystem.

The government said artificial intelligence presents significant opportunities for economic growth, job creation, improved public services, and the development of new businesses across different sectors.

Officials noted that Nigeria’s large population, growing technology ecosystem, and expanding pool of young digital talent give the country a strong foundation to benefit from the growth of AI across Africa.

However, stakeholders said unlocking the opportunity would require sustained investment in digital infrastructure, research and development, education, and access to computing resources.

They also stressed the importance of developing policies that encourage responsible AI adoption while protecting users and supporting local innovators.

Technology experts said Nigerian startups and businesses could benefit from AI by improving productivity, developing new products, and accessing international markets.

The government has continued to promote digital skills development and collaboration between the public and private sectors as part of efforts to build a stronger technology ecosystem.

Stakeholders believe that stronger partnerships among government agencies, universities, technology companies, investors, and startups will be essential to ensuring that Nigeria does not remain only a consumer of AI technologies.

They urged policymakers to create an environment that allows local innovators to develop solutions capable of competing within Africa and the global technology market.