Experts Call For National Policy On AI Development, Deployment In Nigeria
By Sunday Etuka, Abuja
Experts in Nigeria have called for the formulation of National Policy on Artificial Intelligence (AI) development and deployment in Nigeria.
They made the call on Thursday while speaking at the Saban Media Services Colloquium on AI Policy in Nigeria, with the theme: “Navigating Opportunities and Challenges for National Development,” held in Abuja.
The landmark event was organised to deepen discussions and lay the groundworks for robust and forward-thinking AI Policy that recognizes innovations while safeguarding the values and the people.
Speaking at the event, the former Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALs), Prof. Mohammed Tawfiq Ladan, said there is no national policy or legislative framework, or a specific regulatory framework today on AI, relating to its development, deployment, application or use in Nigeria.
Noting that even though the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), developed the National AI Strategy in 2024, it is yet to be approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
Acknowledging that the issue is not peculiar to Nigeria, Prof. Ladan disclosed that of the 55 African Union (AU) member states, only ten countries have explored higher than Nigeria in terms of AI readiness.
“Egypt is on top, followed by South Africa, then Kenya; and Nigeria is named on the table with 43%. It shows that we are actually making progress in terms of AIreadiness.
“But we do have some policy, regulatory, legislative, infrastructure and skills challenges that will really push the percentage of Nigeria’s AI readiness to the level of desirability for us to really be part of sharing the cake that AI seeks to really contribute to global economy, which is about $15.7trillion by the year 2030,” he said.
Ladan noted that advanced countries are slowing down in promulgating a general, national AI regulations or legislations or even the national policy on the application of AI because of the dynamic nature of AI.
Nevertheless, he said efforts are being intensified by the Nigerian government to scale up readiness for the AI deployment and usage in the country.
On his part, the Director of Regulation and Compliance Department and Head of Legal Services and Board Matters Unit (NITDA), Emmanuel Edet, said the AI has come to stay, therefore the focus should be on how to ensure that the technologies that enhance the economy is properly used in a safe manner in Nigeria.
“We need tobuild a policy ecosystem that is forward-looking, inclusive and resilient,” he added.
In her keynote address, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman said that Nigeria is taking strategic steps tobe among the global leaders in the AI space.
Represented by the Head of the Central Delivery Coordination Unit (CDCU), Dr. Khalipha Nuhu, the SA said Nigeria has set an ambitious target of being listed among the top 50 AI ready and active user countries among the globe.
“This shows Nigeria’s commitment to being global leader in AI and also being front runner in the AI space within the African continent,” she said.
While acknowledging that AI is being used negatively in unregulated sectors in Nigeria, Usman said the government intends to have a policy that reflects how AI could be used locally, contextualize to Nigeria’s problems, so as to solve the nation’s problems.
“We need to be intentional; we need to be upright and we also need to acknowledge the challenges, worries and concerns that are brought about by the use of the AI within our spaces,” she noted.
Earlier, in her opening remarks, the Convener of the programme, Leah Katung-Babatunde, said the goal was to create a platform for thoughtful and discussion of policies that shape the future of the nation.
“Two years later, I am incredibly proud of what we have built together -a community that is dedicated to understanding, questioning, and influencing the policies that impact every Nigerian.
“When we don’t pay attention to the policies that affect us, then it means the government is operating in a void, and when we noticed that gap, we thought to close it by bridging the communications inadequacies there,” she said.
She explained that the Colloquium on AI Policy in Nigeria, Navigating Opportunities and Challenges for National Development was a testament to the relevance of the mission.
“AI is not adistant concept; it is here and its potential to transform our society is immense. From revolutionizing healthcare and agriculture to enhancing our economy and public services, AI offers a new frontier of possibilities.
“However, with great power comes the greater responsibilities. As we embrace the opportunities of AI, we must also proactively address the challenges.
“How do we ensure that AI development is inclusive and equitable? How do we protect data privacy and security? What ethical frameworks must we establish to guide its use. These are not easy questions, but they are critical for securing the future where AI serves all of humanity and not just a few.
“The discussions we will have today are vital. They are about laying the groundwork for robust and forward-thinking AI Policy that recognizes innovations while safeguarding our values and our people,” Leah said.
