Nigeria could forfeit a $1.2 trillion opportunity in artificial intelligence, according to a warning from NIGCOMSAT.
Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited, the nation's satellite operator, has urged for prompt policy measures to leverage the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence.
The operator cautioned that Nigeria may forfeit its share of Africa's anticipated $1.2 trillion in the global AI economy by 2030.
This appeal was articulated by NIGCOMSAT’s Managing Director, Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, in a statement released on Friday after her attendance at the 12th Regular Meeting of the National Council for Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, which took place in Makurdi, Benue State.
The meeting, organized by the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, focused on the theme “Accelerating the Adoption of Artificial Intelligence through Policy and Innovation for Sustainable Development in Nigeria.”
“Artificial intelligence is transforming industries, economies, and societies globally, with estimates suggesting it could add up to $15.7 trillion to the world economy by 2030. Africa could secure $1.2 trillion of this, provided that appropriate policies and innovations are implemented,” Egerton-Idehen stated, referencing a report from PricewaterhouseCoopers.
The NIGCOMSAT Managing Director emphasized AI's potential to revolutionize agriculture, particularly in Benue State, known as Nigeria’s “food basket.”
She pointed out that machine learning technologies could enhance agricultural methods by improving pest detection and optimizing planting schedules through satellite imagery.
“AI presents us with the opportunity not only to thrive economically but also to attain food security. However, we must consider whether we are ready to handle this technology responsibly,” she remarked.
Egerton-Idehen also highlighted that limited internet access poses a significant challenge to the adoption of AI in Nigeria.
She highlighted data indicating that by early 2024, merely 45.5 percent of Nigerians had internet access.
“For AI tools to function effectively, foundational digital infrastructure is crucial. Bridging this gap should be a top priority,” she emphasized, underscoring the necessity for a unified approach to enhance digital infrastructure access while implementing appropriate policies.
In her reflections on the meeting discussions, Egerton-Idehen conveyed a sense of both optimism and urgency, acknowledging the swift advancements in AI on a global scale.
“AI is progressing. We have the chance to navigate this technological revolution responsibly, both in Africa and worldwide, through innovation and governance,” she remarked.
In August 2024, the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy unveiled a draft National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, with the goal of establishing Nigeria as a global leader in AI.
The draft strategy delineates key pillars for responsible AI development and aims to cultivate a strong ecosystem for innovation.
This initiative builds upon previous efforts, including the creation of the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics in 2020 and various funding initiatives for AI research and startups.
Although the NAIS remains in draft form, it signifies Nigeria’s dedication to utilizing AI as a transformative instrument for economic and social progress.