Nigeria is making significant strides in harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) for sustainable development while protecting democracy. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu emphasized the need for responsible AI use at the 149th Inter-Parliamentary Union General Debate in Geneva, Switzerland. He highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to leveraging Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) for a more peaceful and sustainable future.
The country is working towards adopting a National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy Framework, led by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy. This policy will facilitate ethical AI use in addressing key challenges, such as automating agricultural processes and enhancing healthcare delivery. The goal is to optimize wage employment, ensure job creation, and mitigate risks associated with AI.
Key Objectives:
– Ethical AI Use_: Ensure AI is used responsibly to protect human rights and democratic values.
– Job Creation_: Optimize AI to create jobs, rather than undermine employment.
– Digital Infrastructure_: Increase investment in digital infrastructure, particularly in underserved rural areas.
– Regional Cooperation_: Advocate for regional cooperation to create digital economy hubs and empower African countries to compete globally.
Nigeria has already made significant progress, including passing the Nigeria Startup Act in 2022, which provides a legal framework supporting innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation. The National Artificial Intelligence Policy (NAIP) will prioritize protecting citizens’ rights, establishing legal foundations for innovation, bridging the global technological divide, and creating digital economy hubs.
By adopting a comprehensive AI policy, Nigeria aims to lead in discussions on AI’s role in protecting the rule of law and democratic governance. This move is poised to drive transformative growth through AI technology, fuel innovation, bolster national productivity, and enhance human welfare.
LV