ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), the nation’s satellite operator, has urged swift policy action to unlock the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the country.
The agency cautioned that Nigeria risks forfeiting its share of Africa’s projected $1.2 trillion contribution to the global AI economy by 2030 if decisive steps are not taken.
This appeal was made by NIGCOMSAT’s Managing Director, Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, in a statement issued on Friday after attending the 12th Regular Meeting of the National Council for Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy in Makurdi, Benue State.
The event, organized by the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, centered on the theme: “Accelerating the Adoption of Artificial Intelligence through Policy and Innovation for Sustainable Development in Nigeria.”
“Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, economies, and societies worldwide, with projections that it will contribute up to $15.7tn to the global economy by 2030. Africa stands to gain $1.2tn of this if the right policies and innovations are in place,” Egerton-Idehen said, citing a PricewaterhouseCoopers report.
The Managing Director of NIGCOMSAT emphasized the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on agriculture, particularly its relevance to Benue State, often referred to as Nigeria’s “food basket.”
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She noted that machine learning technologies have the potential to revolutionize farming practices by enhancing pest detection and optimizing planting schedules through the use of satellite imagery.
“AI offers us the chance to not only flourish economically but also to achieve food security. However, we must ask ourselves if we are prepared to manage this technology responsibly,” she added.
Egerton-Idehen highlighted limited internet access as a major obstacle to the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in Nigeria.
She cited data indicating that, as of early 2024, only 45.5% of Nigerians had internet connectivity.
“For AI tools to be effective, basic digital infrastructure is essential. Addressing this gap must be a priority,” she said, stressing the need for a coordinated effort to expand access to digital infrastructure while enforcing relevant policies.
Reflecting on the meeting’s discussions, Egerton-Idehen conveyed a mix of optimism and urgency, emphasizing the swift progress of AI developments worldwide.
“AI is happening. We have the opportunity to manage this technology revolution responsibly, both in Africa and globally, through innovation and governance,” she said.
In August 2024, the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy unveiled a draft National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (NAIS) designed to position Nigeria as a global leader in AI innovation.
The strategy outlines key pillars for responsible AI development and aims to create a vibrant ecosystem to drive innovation.
This initiative builds on previous efforts, such as the establishment of the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics in 2020 and various funding programs supporting AI research and startups.
Although still in draft form, the NAIS underscores Nigeria’s dedication to harnessing AI as a catalyst for economic growth and social progress.