
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has announced that Nigeria is working with innovators and startups to create a framework for artificial intelligence (AI) governance. This collaboration aims to ensure that AI develops responsibly and inclusively. NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, emphasized the importance of cooperation rather than top-down policymaking during a recent event in Abuja.
Inuwa stated that Nigeria’s AI strategy aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on digitalization and innovation for economic growth. The strategy includes building digital infrastructure, expanding connectivity, and ensuring that Nigeria’s culture and languages are represented in AI technologies. He highlighted the launch of Nigeria’s National Multilingual Large Language Model as a significant step toward developing local AI solutions.
NITDA aims to integrate AI across key sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and education to improve efficiency and productivity. Inuwa noted that AI is intended to enhance human efforts, enabling professionals to work smarter. He concluded that the co-creation approach will not only protect citizens but also foster innovation, positioning Nigeria as a leader in the future of AI.