Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming a buzzword across industries in Nigeria, but one technology expert believes the country’s embrace of AI is being overstated. Debola Ibiyode, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Carbon AI, has argued that much of what is being presented as AI adoption is driven by hype rather than genuine innovation, raising concerns about the country’s readiness to compete in the global AI race.
Speaking during an interview on TVC, Ibiyode said many businesses are rushing to attach the AI label to their products and services without fully understanding or utilizing the technology. She described the trend as “AI washing,” a practice where companies exaggerate the role and capabilities of artificial intelligence in order to appear innovative. According to her, the widespread excitement surrounding AI has encouraged organizations to market almost everything as AI-powered, regardless of its actual functionality.
The technology entrepreneur warned that Nigeria risks falling behind if it remains focused solely on consuming AI tools developed abroad. While many Nigerians actively use popular AI applications, she noted that only a small number are involved in creating or improving such technologies. Ibiyode stressed that true progress will come when local developers and innovators begin building solutions designed specifically to address Nigeria’s unique challenges.
Addressing growing fears about job losses, Ibiyode dismissed claims that artificial intelligence will replace human workers on a large scale. She explained that AI should be viewed as a tool that enhances productivity rather than a substitute for people. Drawing a comparison with spreadsheet software, she noted that accountants were not replaced by Excel when it was introduced; instead, they adapted and became more efficient in their roles.
Ibiyode called on government agencies, major corporations, and educational institutions to invest more heavily in AI education, infrastructure, and innovation programmes. She believes that empowering young Nigerians with the skills and resources needed to develop homegrown AI solutions will help the country unlock the full potential of the technology. Greater local participation, she said, would ensure Nigeria becomes a creator of AI-driven solutions rather than remaining primarily a consumer of foreign innovations.
source: The cable