Nigeria, West Africa’s most populous nation, is taking steps to become a leader in Artificial Intelligence (AI). The government has invited global experts to participate in the formulation of a national AI strategy in order to develop the country’s AI economy. This strategy is expected to unlock more opportunities for innovation and job creation, and boost economic growth.
1. Nigeria Sets Sights on Artificial Intelligence
In recent years, Nigeria has set its sights on Artificial Intelligence (AI) as one of its emerging technologies of choice. Determined to become a leader in AI, the government of Nigeria is implementing a broader strategy to develop a digital economy, focusing on artificial intelligence, digital banking, fintech, open communications, cyber security, big data, blockchain, and robotics.
The country’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) is providing the framework for Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts. NDEPS is geared to boost technology capabilities across the nation while mitigating threats, therefore playing a major role in facilitating the effective adoption of AI.
To further drive digital transformation, the Nigerian government has developed a Digital Innovation and Technology Fund which will provide grants and funding for local entrepreneurs as well as investments in AI start-ups. Additionally, the government is also introducing new talent with AI expertise from the academia, startups, and other industry players to help drive digital transformation.
2. Enhancing National AI Strategy with Global Expertise
In recent years, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly grown, revolutionizing the world of technology and research. To ensure the continued growth of AI, and encourage its deployment, it is essential that countries have a clearly defined national AI strategy. Such strategies, however, need to be augmented with external expertise to maximize their effectiveness – this is where global expertise comes in.
Global expertise is key to the success of a national AI strategy, since it provides new perspectives, unique approaches and tools to tackle the problems that nations are facing. Global experts are also a key source of economic and business innovation, offering the potential for wealth generation, job creation, and improved prosperity.
Furthermore, global expertise is also beneficial to countries seeking to tap into the latest AI technologies and innovations. By connecting with global experts, countries can access new and cutting-edge AI concepts and solutions. This can help to keep nations on the cutting edge of technological developments, allowing them to better compete in the digital global market.
- Global expertise provides valuable perspectives on a national AI strategy.
- It can be used to generate wealth, create jobs, and improve economic prosperity.
- It also allows countries to access the very latest innovations and technologies.
3. Governments Invitation for AI Collaboration
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has garnered attention across the world as a technology for digital transformation and to improve many aspects of life. Governments are increasingly recognising the advantages of AI and have extended invitations to businesses and organisations to collaborate with them to explore the potential of the technology.
Fostering Development of AI Applications Governments have launched initiatives such as funding grants and sponsored programs to support the development of AI applications in the fields of healthcare, education, transportation, finance, and agriculture.
The US government is one of the most active in encouraging AI development. The “American AI Initiative”, run by the Office of Science and Technology, allocates financial and other resources to AI research and development, amongst other things.
Addressing Data Needs A major challenge for the development of AI is data availability. AI needs huge data sets that are up-to-date and accurate to be able to work. In the US, the Office of Science and Technology is collaborating with other government departments to create a central repository of data from various sources.
Governments also have data available related to healthcare, transportation, and finance which they can provide to AI developers to test and improve their applications. Other governments have implemented initiatives such as “Open Data”, that allow AI developers to access and utilise public data.
Strengthening Infrastructure
- Governments have launched infrastructure initiatives to support the development of AI.
- US Government has made investments in High Performance Computing, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence research.
- Singapore has implemented the “ Intelligent Nation 2015 (iN2015)” Master Plan which focuses on creating strong AI infrastructure.
- The UK has committed to allocating £1.6 billion for development of AI and Robotics.
Governments across the world are increasing their efforts to create a conducive environment for the development of AI applications. They are inviting businesses and organisations to collaborate and build solutions that benefit the citizens.
4. Understanding the Nigerian AI Roadmap
The Nigerian government recently unveiled its Artificial Intelligence roadmap for 2020-2030. To begin unlocking the potential of AI technology, a detailed action plan has been established in the roadmap.
First, the Nigerian government is investing in the printing of AI technology books and training materials to build strong foundations of knowledge in the country. Training centers for AI technology have been opened throughout the country, and a pilot program for AI development is underway.
The roadmap also calls for the development of a National AI Framework, an AI data platform, and the launch of the Nigerian AI Center. Additionally, the roadmap emphasizes the importance of the public-private sector in the adoption and development of AI. This includes providing the necessary funding for for AI research, as well as incentivizing the private sector to take an active role in the development of AI products.
The roadmap also calls for the establishment of regulations for the safe and ethical training and use of AI. This will ensure that the applications of AI technology benefit all Nigerians, while mitigating the potential risks associated with the technology.
The Nigerian government’s invitation for collaboration on AI is an ambitious and ambitious undertaking. With AI already making a significant impact on the Nigerian economy, this could potentially be an even larger positive influence. With the help of international experts, Nigeria is no doubt on the path to becoming an AI hub of the future.