Dr. Kashifu Inuwa, director-general, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has said that embracing artificial intelligence (AI) is central to achieving Nigeria’s $1 trillion economy benchmark.
Inuwa emphasised that this technology has the potential to transform the nation’s economy and position Nigeria as Africa’s leader in the AI revolution.
Speaking in Abuja at an Economic Confidential lecture, Inuwa, emphasised that AI could transform the country’s economy, raising Gross Domestic Product by as much as 20 per cent—if deployed strategically.
“AI is not meant to replace humans but to empower them, enhancing productivity in academia, agriculture, and business,” Inuwa said.
According to him, Nigeria must not miss the fourth industrial revolution, having fallen behind in earlier ones.
“AI has the potential to automate up to 30 per cent of tasks in the economy. This could translate to as much as 20 per cent GDP growth.
“Those who fail to upskill will be replaced. Nations leading in AI will lead the world,” he added.
He outlined critical pathways to position Nigeria in the evolving digital order, stressing the need to drive national prosperity and inclusivity while tracing the transformation journey from the industrial revolution to the present era of artificial intelligence.
Inuwa connected this vision to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, reiterating President Bola Tinubu’s eight priority areas, and provided insights into NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), built on eight pillars for advancing Nigeria’s digital economy.
Stressing the benefits of mobile technology and digital connectivity—even for rural market traders—Inuwa warned of growing cyber risks.
“Greater connectivity must be balanced with stronger cybersecurity measures,” Inuwa said.
Dr Ike Neliaku, president, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, represented by Dr Afolabi Olajuwon of the Budget Office of the Federation, added a warning: “Countries that fail to embrace the digital revolution risk being left behind.”
Yushau Shuaib, editor-in-chief, Economic Confidential, emphasised that AI is already reshaping journalism and public relations in Nigeria, calling the lecture series, an effort to promote “evidence-based policy inputs” for innovation and economic growth.
The event also featured the launch of three books by young Nigerian journalists exploring banking, healthcare, and digital diplomacy—signalling a new generation of voices in the country’s technology debate.
