A new report from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) reveals that Nigeria, alongside other developing countries, lacks adequate digital infrastructure for the deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology.
Despite Nigeria recently unveiling its AI strategy and launching its first Multilingual Large Language Model (LLM) in April, the IMF’s ‘AI Preparedness Index’ indicates significant gaps in digital infrastructure across most developing economies.
According to the report, which tracks 174 economies based on digital infrastructure, human capital, labor policies, innovation, integration, and regulation, many developing nations, including most African countries, are least prepared for AI adoption. Only Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa show substantial readiness, marked in blue on the index’s interactive map.
The IMF warns that AI adoption could exacerbate global inequality, disproportionately benefiting wealthier economies unless proactive policies are implemented. It emphasizes the potential benefits of AI in complementing worker skills, enhancing productivity, and creating new opportunities, particularly in advanced economies where up to 30% of jobs could benefit from AI integration.
To address these challenges, the IMF recommends that emerging markets and developing economies invest in digital infrastructure and digital training for workers. Advanced economies, meanwhile, are advised to bolster social safety nets, expand worker training programs, and prioritize AI innovation and integration.