Introduction

There has been a significant shift in the acceptance of Artificial Intelligence (AI), from early smart assistants like Alexa and Siri to advanced systems like ChatGPT, which enable dynamic, context-aware conversations. Recently, Nigeria has invested heavily in Artificial Intelligence (AI), focusing on research and development to foster innovation, job creation, and productivity across sectors. This growing interest stems from the recognition that ethical AI can drive economic growth, improve public services, and address societal challenges.

Following the advent of AI in Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy unveiled the draft of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in August 2024, which was formulated by the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics and the National Information Technology Development Agency.

Objectives of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy

The proposed Strategy generally seeks to provide a comprehensive approach to leveraging AI for national development, innovation, capacity-building, and the ethical use of technology. By prioritizing research, digital inclusion, and workforce development, it seeks to position Nigeria as a key player in the global AI landscape while ensuring that the benefits of AI are equitably distributed across the country. The strategy also addresses challenges related to cybersecurity and societal impact, aiming for a sustainable and inclusive future.

The Pillars of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy

To achieve the objectives of the Strategy, the following strategic pillars are outlined in the draft, each serving as a cornerstone for advancing AI development across diverse sectors, they include:

1. Building Foundational AI Infrastructure.
2. Building and Sustaining a Word-Class AI Ecosystem.
3. Accelerating AI Adoption and Sector Transformation.
4. Ensuring Responsible and Ethical AI Development.
5. Developing a Robust AI Governance Framework.

Implementation Plan of the Strategy

The plan begins by establishing a governance framework, which includes setting up a National AI Steering Committee and Coordination Office, along with finalizing legal and ethical guidelines within the first six months. Over the next year, the strategy focuses on building AI research centers, enhancing data infrastructure, and improving digital connectivity, while also setting up an AI testing platform to drive innovation.

By the 18-month mark, the strategy is to introduce AI curricula in universities, offer scholarships, and launch workforce upskilling programs, alongside fostering AI entrepreneurship through incubators. A milestone aimed to be achieved within the first year is the development of AI policies, ethical frameworks, and international collaborations.

Within 12 to 36 months, the plan is to deploy AI across key sectors, including healthcare (AI diagnostics), agriculture (precision farming), and education (personalized learning). Continuous monitoring and evaluation will ensure the strategy’s impact, adaptability, and inclusivity, as Nigeria works toward becoming a leader in AI-driven innovation and economic growth in Africa.

Risk Management Plan of the Strategy

The Draft includes a risk management plan that addresses six key implementation challenges, they include:

1. Funding shortfalls: The Strategy seeks to mitigate this challenge by securing public and private sector investments and prioritizing cost-effective initiatives.
2. Lack of skilled workforce: In the strategy, this is addressed by creating AI talent hubs and partnerships with universities to offer AI degree programmes.
3. Public ethical concerns: This will be managed through transparent regulations and awareness campaigns.
4. Data security: The Strategy aims to enhance data security by incorporating strict measures in data protection.
5. Slow private sector adoption: In the management plan of the strategy, this is addressed by initiating tax incentives and funding for the private sector.
6. Rapid technological change: This is to be mitigated through increased research and development resources.

Potential Challenges of the Strategy

The Draft outlines essential strategic pillars, but the implementation plan lacks sufficient details on achieving the desired outcomes. Key components such as

Governance Structure, Coordination Mechanisms, Milestones, Monitoring and Evaluation Framework, and Resource Allocation are mentioned, with little to no guidance on how these will be developed or executed by stakeholders. This gap makes it difficult to translate the strategy into concrete actions, leaving uncertainties about role definitions, timeline feasibility, and long-term sustainability. Without these details, the plan risks being ineffective in reaching its goals.

The Draft also proposed the “Open Data Initiative” to make public sector data more accessible, fostering innovation in various sectors through AI7. The initiative aims to promote collaboration between the public and private sectors, enhancing data-driven solutions. However, the strategy does not provide a timeline for the launch of this initiative, nor does it specify the responsible entity for development and implementation, thereby creating ambiguity.

Conclusion

The National Artificial Intelligence Strategy Draft, 2024 (NAIS) marks a crucial step in leveraging AI for socio-economic development and establishing the country as a global AI leader. Though forward-thinking and thorough, the absence of detailed timelines and steps for seamless implementation pose significant challenges. Thus, it is essential to define clear roles and responsibilities for the relevant ministries, and/ or agencies, along with clear timelines and strategies for action.

Funding can also be secured through various sources, such as public-private partnerships, international grants, and AI-specific venture capital. Collaborations with technology giants and AI organizations can also provide valuable resources and expertise.

With a clear and actionable plan, Nigeria can seize the opportunities presented by AI, driving transformative change across its industries and securing its position in the global AI landscape.