During a keynote speech at Nigeria Fintech Week, Kashifu Inuwa, the agency’s Director General, represented by Emmanuel Edet, Director of Standards, Guidelines, and Framework, emphasized the transformative power of AI. He noted that this technology has the potential to revolutionize critical sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture, and governance.
“Innovation is not just a tool; it’s a paradigm shift that can redefine every aspect of our lives,” Inuwa declared, underscoring the urgency for Africa to engage in these discussions.
The International Monetary Fund has hailed AI as a “technological revolution,” capable of jumpstarting productivity, boosting global growth, and elevating incomes worldwide.
According to PWC’s Global Artificial Intelligence Study, titled Exploiting the AI Revolution, AI could add an astonishing $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030—surpassing the current combined output of China and India.
As the world stands on the brink of this technological revolution, Africa’s participation in shaping AI regulations will be crucial for ensuring that the continent reaps its benefits while navigating the challenges ahead.
Inuwa emphasized the critical need for Africa to claim its rightful position in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. He pointed out that active participation in global AI governance is vital to ensure that this transformative technology benefits all of humanity, not just the privileged few in more advanced nations.
While acknowledging the significant progress made by countries like the United States, China, and the European Union in shaping AI governance, Inuwa highlighted that their initiatives often cater to their unique contexts and priorities. He urged African nations to come together and contribute to a more inclusive framework that reflects the continent’s diverse needs and aspirations.
“AI’s impact will be global, and its regulation must reflect that reality,” Inuwa asserted passionately. He underscored the importance of Africa’s participation in shaping governance frameworks to ensure they are inclusive of the continent’s rich tapestry of cultural, economic, and social contexts.
“Africa must stand up for inclusivity in global AI governance,” he urged, highlighting the need for our unique challenges—like infrastructure deficits, evolving education systems, and distinct social values—to be front and centre in these discussions.
Echoing this sentiment, Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, emphasized that “Nigeria has a pivotal role to play in becoming a global superpower in the development and regulation of AI.” Together, these voices call for Africa to seize the moment and influence the future of AI on a global scale.
By 2030, AI is poised to contribute an impressive $2.9 trillion to Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with Nigeria’s AI market projected to reach a remarkable $434.4 million by 2026.
Oremeyi Akah, Chief Customer Experience Officer at Interswitch, resonated with the Director General’s sentiments during a panel session, asserting, “It’s time for Africa and the Global South to take their rightful place at the table, driving conversations that are relevant to our local contexts and realities. It will take Africans to solve African problems—Africa is too significant to be silenced.”
She emphasized the urgency of proactive engagement, stating, “We must be intentional about shaping regulations that guide this technology to deliver meaningful solutions, positioning Africa prominently in these ongoing discussions.
With Africa currently housing the largest concentration of the workforce—and this trend is projected to continue—we cannot remain mere recipients of technology. We must actively participate in its development and application.”
Inuwa emphasized the exciting opportunity for Africa to cultivate local talent and invest in homegrown innovations in the AI space. By fostering research and development, he believes the continent can create indigenous AI solutions tailored to its unique challenges and aspirations.
“For Africa to take a front-row seat in AI regulation, we need to build our capacity,” Inuwa declared. “AI shouldn’t just be something we import; it’s a chance for us to craft solutions that truly resonate with our needs.”
He also urged African nations and the Global South to band together, advocating for strategic alliances that would amplify their voices in the global AI arena. “Let’s join forces and make some noise in global AI governance through organizations like the African Union!” he suggested, pointing to the AU’s roadmap for AI as a promising step in the right direction.
With a united front, Africa can harness the power of AI to drive change and innovation across the continent!
Bola Adesina, Director of Bola Adesina Consulting, captured attention during a panel session by highlighting the unique opportunity Africa has to embrace the newness of AI technology.
“The world is still figuring out this groundbreaking technology, and that presents an incredible chance for Nigeria and the rest of Africa,” she noted. “For the first time, we have a level playing field because we’re all starting from the same point.”
While she acknowledged that the West may have the financial resources that give it an edge, Adesina emphasized that this is a pivotal moment in Africa’s history to step into the spotlight and lead the way in AI technology.
Inuwa from NITDA chimed in, underscoring the agency’s vital role in driving Nigeria’s AI advancements. He pointed to the establishment of the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) and the formulation of a national AI strategy as significant milestones.
He also highlighted a recent workshop that brought together over 120 experts to craft a comprehensive roadmap for integrating AI in Nigeria. These initiatives showcase NITDA’s dedication to building a responsible and inclusive AI ecosystem, paving the way for a brighter technological future for the continent!
The Director General stressed that Africa and the Global South have a critical role to play in shaping the future of AI regulation, ensuring the technology is harnessed responsibly and equitably for the benefit of all.
“Africa and the Global South must be at the table when it comes to AI regulation. The global landscape is incomplete without our active participation,” he declared, calling for strong collaboration between governments, private sectors, civil society, and international organizations.
Inuwa’s vision is clear: Africa must not just be a bystander in the AI revolution but a key player, helping to shape a future where AI serves the common good, not just a privileged few.
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