The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and digital innovation as key drivers of economic growth. According to projections shared by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), automating tasks across major sectors could contribute up to 20% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the near future.
Speaking at the 3rd Economic Confidential Lecture in Abuja, NITDA Director General Kashifu Abdullahi highlighted AI’s transformative potential in accelerating national development. He compared this opportunity to Nigeria’s leapfrogging of landline infrastructure through widespread mobile phone adoption, stating that AI could help the nation overcome longstanding developmental challenges.
Abdullahi explained that AI technologies are capable of automating up to 30% of routine economic activities, unlocking productivity and enabling businesses to redirect resources toward higher-value tasks. To illustrate this impact, he shared the story of a female farmer in Kaduna who used an AI-powered advisory app. The app provided customized planting recommendations based on satellite imagery, weather data, and soil analysis—helping her double her income, secure her child’s education, and create local employment opportunities.
The NITDA boss stressed that Nigeria is positioning itself as Africa’s leading digital innovation hub, noting that the country already hosts five of the continent’s eight tech unicorns. He underscored the need for a supportive ecosystem comprising robust infrastructure, forward-thinking regulations, and strategic partnerships to fully harness AI’s potential. “Nigeria is not waiting for the future—we are building it now,” Abdullahi declared.
In a goodwill message, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) President Dr. Ike Neliaku praised the lecture’s theme, “Renewed Hope Agenda for a Digital Global Economy,” describing it as timely. He urged the government, private sector, academia, and media to collaborate in ensuring Nigeria evolves from being a consumer of technology to a creator and exporter of digital solutions.
source: The sun