Delivering remarks at a high-level panel, MTN Nigeria’s General Manager for Regulatory Affairs, Ikenna Ikeme, emphasized that local data is critical for AI systems to generate accurate, context-specific, and responsible outcomes in African environments.
“Data Can Be Both Transformational and Risky” — MTN’s Ikeme
Speaking during a panel discussion titled “Data Governance for Responsible and Beneficial Use of AI,” Ikeme pointed to data’s dual potential as both a transformative tool and a source of serious risk.
“Data can be transformational by bringing efficiency to businesses,” he noted, “but it also presents risks ranging from privacy violations to misdirected investment.”
He warned against the overreliance on external data sources, which he argued often fail to reflect the unique socioeconomic, cultural, and linguistic realities of African societies.
AI’s Economic Promise: $30 Trillion by 2030
Also speaking at the session was Adewolu Adene, Government Affairs and Public Policy Manager at Google, who projected that with the right governance frameworks, AI and data governance could contribute as much as $30 trillion to Africa’s economy by 2030.
“All relevant authorities and stakeholders must ensure Africa is positioned to capitalise on this new economy,” Adene urged.
Adene’s comment reinforced the broader theme of the conference: Africa must not be left behind in the global race for AI leadership.
A Cross-Industry, Cross-Border Dialogue
Other distinguished speakers at the session included:
- Nonye Ujam, Government Affairs Lead at Microsoft
- Ololade Shyllon, Director of Privacy Policy for Africa, Middle East, and Turkey at Meta
- Oliver Patel, Head of Enterprise AI Governance at AstraZeneca (joining virtually)
- Femi Daniel, Senior Counsel for Privacy and Data Protection at Mastercard
Together, the panelists examined how responsible data governance and locally relevant AI development could drive inclusive growth, digital trust, and sustainable innovation in Africa.
Policy, Infrastructure, and Collaboration Needed
Across multiple sessions, the NADPA Conference stressed the urgent need for African countries to:
- Build robust legal frameworks that protect data privacy and ensure accountability in AI use
- Invest in local data infrastructure to reduce dependency on foreign systems
- Encourage regional cooperation to facilitate secure, cross-border data flows
Speakers emphasized that responsible AI development must not only safeguard user privacy but also amplify African voices and perspectives in the global tech ecosystem.
A Call to Action: Shaping Africa’s Digital Destiny
The NADPA Conference concluded with a strong message: Africa must take ownership of its digital future. This requires a collaborative approach among governments, regulators, technology companies, and civil society.
“Homegrown solutions are not just desirable; they are essential,” delegates agreed, echoing a shared belief that trust, transparency, and local relevance are foundational to Africa’s long-term success in the AI era.