NIGCOMSAT Warns Nigeria Could Miss $1.2 Trillion AI Opportunity Without Urgent Action.
The Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) has issued a call for immediate policy intervention to harness the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI), warning that Nigeria risks losing out on Africa’s projected $1.2 trillion share of the global AI economy by 2030.
Speaking after the 12th Regular Meeting of the National Council for Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy in Makurdi, Benue State, NIGCOMSAT Managing Director Nkechi Egerton-Idehen emphasized the critical role of AI in reshaping industries and economies worldwide.
The meeting, themed “Accelerating the Adoption of Artificial Intelligence through Policy and Innovation for Sustainable Development in Nigeria,” was organized by the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy.
Egerton-Idehen cited a report by PricewaterhouseCoopers, which estimates that AI could contribute up to $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with Africa poised to gain $1.2 trillion if adequate policies and innovations are implemented. She highlighted the potential of AI in revolutionizing agriculture, particularly in Benue State, Nigeria’s “food basket.”
“Machine learning tools can transform agricultural practices by enhancing pest detection and optimizing planting schedules using satellite imagery,” she said. “AI offers Nigeria the chance to not only thrive economically but also achieve food security. However, we must prepare to manage this technology responsibly.”
Egerton-Idehen identified internet access as a significant barrier to AI adoption in Nigeria, noting that only 45.5% of Nigerians had internet access as of early 2024. She stressed the need to address this digital infrastructure gap to ensure effective AI integration.
“For AI tools to be impactful, basic digital infrastructure is essential. Expanding access and enforcing relevant policies must be a priority,” she stated.
Reflecting on the rapid global advancements in AI, Egerton-Idehen urged stakeholders to act swiftly, emphasizing both the opportunities and responsibilities tied to the technology.
Related Posts
In August 2024, the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy released a draft National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (NAIS) to position Nigeria as a global leader in AI. The draft outlines strategic pillars for responsible AI development and aims to foster a robust ecosystem for innovation.
This initiative builds on earlier efforts, including the establishment of the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics in 2020 and funding programs for AI research and startups. While still in draft form, the NAIS reflects Nigeria’s commitment to leveraging AI as a transformative tool for economic growth and social development.
