Nigeria has officially launched its National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy in Lagos, marking a significant milestone in the country’s push to harness AI for productivity, innovation, and economic growth across sectors.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by the minister of communications, innovation and digital economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, during the unveiling of the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Collective Industry (NAICI), a new initiative designed to support the strategy’s implementation.
According to Dr. Tijani, the National AI Strategy was developed through an inclusive, multi-stakeholder process involving the government, academic institutions, and the private sector.
“The National AI Strategy was developed through a collaborative process involving government, academia, and industry. Nigeria’s approach to AI strategy development is unique and has garnered international recognition,” he said.
He explained that the Nigerian model identifies and engages with local and diaspora-based researchers and experts in AI to design a homegrown strategy that addresses the country’s needs and challenges.
Tijani said the federal government is already funding AI research and partnering with private-sector stakeholders to stimulate growth and innovation in the sector.
“With its innovative approach and commitment to AI development, Nigeria is positioning itself as a hub for AI in West Africa,” he stated. “The country’s strategic location, large population, and growing economy make it an attractive destination for AI investment and innovation.”
He added that Nigeria’s AI Strategy is expected to serve as a blueprint for other African nations.
“The AI strategy will serve as a model for other African countries and contribute to the continent’s economic development,” he said.
Tijani, however, warned that without coordinated efforts, AI could widen the productivity gap between nations.
“So, the challenge that we have is that AI is going to exacerbate the gaps and differences between nations when it comes to productivity,” he cautioned. “We are slightly behind in terms of global AI advancement, and we must work collectively to close that gap.”
The Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Collective (NAICI), a community of practice introduced at the launch, is expected to drive the implementation of the AI strategy while keeping ethics and safety at the core of AI adoption in the country.
Dr. Olubayo Akande, CEO of Data Science Nigeria (DSN), offered insights into the operational focus of NAICI, highlighting research, sector-specific innovation, policy development, and international engagement as its key pillars.
“The AI Collective will also provide a platform for sectoral networks to drive AI adoption and sector transformation,” Akande said. “Industry stakeholders are encouraged to volunteer as champions in various sectors, including telecoms, creative economy, real estate, government, health, agriculture, financial inclusion, and fintech.”
He also announced the launch of Diaspora Connect, a platform created to engage Nigerians abroad in the country’s AI development efforts.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Olayinka David-West, Dean of Information Systems at the Lagos Business School, laid out the broader vision behind Nigeria’s AI strategy.
“Nigeria’s AI strategy is focused on leveraging technical innovation, local talent, and strategic collaboration to drive sustainability and economic growth,” she said.
Describing the strategy as “bold and audacious,” David-West noted that it comprises 12 strategic goals and 34 initiatives geared toward achieving economic, social, and technological transformation.
She said the strategy is anchored on five key pillars: infrastructure development, building a world-class AI ecosystem, sector-wide AI adoption, responsible AI use, and a robust governance framework.
