NIGERIA, UK DEEPEN TIES ON AI, DIGITAL TRADE STANDARDS

Nigeria and the United Kingdom are expanding cooperation on artificial intelligence and digital standards, aiming to support innovation, strengthen public trust and create opportunities for businesses.

The partnership featured an executive workshop delivered by the British Standards Institution alongside Nigeria’s National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, under the UK Government’s Digital Access Programme.

Government officials, regulators and technology professionals examined how internationally recognised standards could help institutions manage AI risks and improve accountability.

The collaboration involves agencies including the National Information Technology Development Agency, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission.

Speaking at the programme, British High Commission official Grace Bell said clear standards could support investment, trade and the responsible adoption of emerging technologies.

NCAIR National Coordinator, Dr Olubunmi Ajala, said the partnership was helping Nigeria develop practical institutional capacity to oversee AI.

Beyond artificial intelligence, the cooperation covers cybersecurity, data protection, digital public services and digital trade standards.

Discussions also explored electronic waste management, reflecting a broader effort to ensure that Nigeria’s growing digital economy develops responsibly and sustainably.