Nigeria has recently launched its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (NAIS), a comprehensive plan aimed at harnessing the transformative potential of AI. Led by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMCIDE), the strategy seeks to position Nigeria as a leader in AI adoption and development across Africa.
Jane Egerton-Idehen, Managing Director of Nigerian Communications and Satellite Limited, emphasised Nigeria’s proactive role in driving the AI agenda. “We all agree that technology in Africa has the potential to improve productivity and drive economic growth,” she remarked.
Searches related to artificial intelligence in Nigeria surged by 100% in 2022, according to Google data, and grew by an additional 30% in 2024, reflecting a 130% rise in AI-related queries over two years. Meanwhile, Statista projects that the AI market in Nigeria will reach $1.05 billion by 2024, with an annual growth rate of 28.1% from 2024 to 2030.
Strategic Vision and Framework
The NAIS outlines a clear vision: to make Nigeria a global leader in leveraging AI for sustainable development and inclusive innovation. This vision aligns with the country’s broader developmental goals, ensuring AI is used to drive economic growth while tackling challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. The strategy also includes guidelines to ensure ethical AI practices, emphasising transparency, fairness, and accountability.
The framework is built around five strategic pillars that will guide the integration of AI into various sectors of the economy:
1. Building Foundational AI Infrastructure
Establishing robust, affordable infrastructure is crucial to Nigeria’s AI ambitions. This pillar focuses on developing high-performance computing resources, improving broadband, and upgrading data centres to support AI projects. Clean energy-powered AI clusters are also prioritised, reducing dependence on traditional energy sources and promoting sustainability.
2. Building and Sustaining a World-Class AI Ecosystem
Collaboration between academia, industry, government, and civil society is essential for AI development in Nigeria. This pillar includes the creation of AI Centres of Excellence and platforms for research and innovation. Such initiatives will foster knowledge transfer, skill-building, and global partnerships, positioning Nigeria as a hub for AI-driven industries.
3. Accelerating AI Adoption and Sector Transformation
The strategy aims to mainstream AI adoption across sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and education. AI solutions promise enhanced productivity and efficiency, leading to improved service delivery and economic diversification. This pillar is vital for scaling AI innovations and increasing investment in AI-driven startups.
4. Ensuring Responsible and Ethical AI Development
Nigeria is committed to developing AI technologies that respect human rights and address societal concerns, such as bias and cybersecurity risks. Guidelines on data use, privacy protection, and algorithmic transparency underscore the strategy’s focus on ethical AI development. This pillar ensures that AI does not exacerbate existing inequalities.
5. Developing a Robust AI Governance Framework
To guide responsible AI deployment, the NAIS outlines the creation of regulatory frameworks promoting accountability, ethical standards, and risk management. These regulations will safeguard AI system integrity and foster fair competition within the AI ecosystem.
Economic Impact and Benefits
The NAIS is expected to significantly boost Nigeria’s economy, enhancing productivity, attracting foreign investment, and generating jobs. Projections indicate the Nigerian AI market could reach $434.4 million by 2026, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 44.2%.
Startups and Innovation
AI-driven startups are poised to thrive due to increased investment and infrastructure support. Government-backed research grants and the establishment of AI Centres of Excellence will fuel innovation, making Nigeria a hub for AI entrepreneurs and developers.
Agriculture
AI-powered precision agriculture provides farmers with data-driven insights to optimise their outputs, thereby improving food security. This is particularly important given agriculture’s vital role in the Nigerian economy.
Healthcare
AI has the potential to revolutionise healthcare delivery by offering predictive analytics and improving diagnostics, which will enhance patient outcomes and increase access to services, particularly in rural areas.
Employment and Skill Development
Nigeria plans to train 3 million individuals in digital and AI-related skills to reduce unemployment and prepare the workforce for future industries. This youth-driven initiative will position Nigeria as a significant player in the global AI ecosystem.
A Roadmap to the Future
The Nigerian government is committed to ensuring the equitable distribution of AI’s benefits across the population. Inclusivity is a priority, with efforts to ensure that women, marginalised groups, and people with disabilities have access to AI-driven opportunities. Nigeria is also leading efforts in AI ethics, focusing on data protection, privacy, and ensuring responsible AI development.
By embracing AI, Nigeria is embarking on a transformative journey marked by technological empowerment and sustainable development. With the NAIS in place, the country is well-positioned to reap the rewards of AI while mitigating its risks. Through a focus on inclusivity, ethics, and innovation, Nigeria is set to become a model for responsible AI adoption and development, paving the way for a brighter future for its citizens.
