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Nigeria is embarking on an ambitious journey to embrace cutting-edge technologies, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence (AI), as part of its strategy to drive economic diversification and growth. This commitment was highlighted during a four-day stakeholders’ workshop titled ‘Developing the High-Level Strategy and Implementation Plan for a National AI Strategy.’
Hosted in Abuja, the workshop brought together key players from both the public and private sectors, alongside global tech experts, to explore the transformative potential of AI in shaping societies worldwide.
Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, stressed the collective responsibility to harness AI for the betterment of humanity. He emphasized the pivotal role of connectivity and innovation in driving national and global development.
Organized by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, the workshop aligns with the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to accelerate economic diversification, industrialization, digitization, and innovation.
The primary goal was to co-create a National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, employing a Human-Centered Design (HCD) approach to address Nigeria’s needs and those of the global community.
Dr. Tijani highlighted the transformative potential of digital technologies in revolutionizing human interactions and societal norms. He called for inclusive participation in shaping AI development, urging participants to embrace diverse perspectives and collaborative efforts to ensure that AI serves the collective good.
Echoing these sentiments, Faruk Yusuf Yabo, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, emphasized AI’s potential to revolutionize various sectors of Nigeria’s economy, from healthcare and agriculture to government operations and education. He stressed the importance of developing a practical and culturally sensitive strategy to harness AI’s benefits while safeguarding national security and sovereignty.
Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director General of NITDA, emphasized AI’s role as a catalyst for societal change. He advocated for a strategy that not only leverages AI as a technological tool but also fosters broader societal development. Abdullahi underscored the importance of inclusivity and collaboration in crafting an innovative yet practical AI strategy that aligns with national priorities and goals.
The workshop featured breakout sessions focused on contextualizing AI strategy, setting directional beacons, and developing thematic visions for AI adoption in Nigeria. Participants, grouped into syndicates, presented strategic initiatives and roadmap developments necessary for crafting a comprehensive AI Strategy document.
Overall, the workshop marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards AI adoption, laying the groundwork for harnessing the transformative potential of AI to drive sustainable development and prosperity for all Nigerians.
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