Bosun Tijani Champions Artificial Intelligence as Key to Nigeria’s Productivity and Prosperity
Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has underscored the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in boosting productivity and accelerating national prosperity. Speaking at the inaugural edition of the Ministry’s virtual public lecture series, organised in partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and Lagos Business School (LBS), Tijani said the Federal Government’s focus on AI is driven by its potential to raise Nigeria’s GDP and position the country as a leader in digital innovation.
The lecture, hosted under the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme (NAIRS), featured the groundbreaking work of the “Tomato Ebola” research consortium. The team, led by Dr. Aniebietabasi Ackley and Dr. Harisu Abdullahi, with contributions from Mark Marvellous and Ofem Eteng—showcased an AI-powered solution for the early detection and management of Tuta Absoluta-induced tomato diseases. This innovation highlights how homegrown research can address pressing agricultural challenges and support food security.
Tijani praised the researchers’ pioneering efforts, noting that AI applications in agriculture could become a catalyst for wider innovation and economic growth. He expressed optimism that the public lecture series would inspire other Nigerian scientists to develop technology-driven solutions for national and continental challenges. “We are not just paying lip service to AI,” he said. “We’re building it to improve the lives of our people and achieve shared prosperity.”
He explained that NAIRS is designed to spotlight local research projects with the potential to become startups and scalable AI applications across key sectors. By linking researchers, policymakers, and innovators, the initiative aims to tackle national priorities, from agriculture and food security to healthcare, climate change, and security, while showcasing Nigeria’s capacity for technological leadership in Africa and beyond.
The Tomato Ebola research team is one of 45 recipients of Nigeria’s first AI Research Grant, underscoring the government’s commitment to nurturing a robust AI ecosystem. As NAIRS continues its lecture series, more Nigerian innovators will present transformative projects that demonstrate how digital technologies can drive inclusive development and strengthen the country’s global competitiveness.
source: the guardian