Presidential aide, Hadiza Bala Usman
Nigeria is positioning itself to join the ranks of the world’s top 50 AI-ready nations, according to the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, Hadiza Usman.
Speaking at the Colloquium on AI Policy in Nigeria, themed: _“Navigating Opportunities and Challenges for National Development”_ in Abuja on Thursday, Usman outlined the country’s ambitious vision for artificial intelligence (AI) advancement.
Represented by Dr. Khalifa Nuhu, Head of the Central Results Delivery and Coordination Unit, Usman emphasized the need for strategic leadership, investment, and partnerships to achieve Nigeria’s AI objectives.
“Collaboration with local and international stakeholders, including public and academic sectors, is essential for successful AI implementation,” she stated, highlighting the importance of tailoring AI policies to address Nigeria’s unique challenges.
Usman also stressed the value of open-mindedness in policy development, noting, “Acknowledging concerns and fostering inclusive dialogue are critical for effective AI strategies.”
She pointed to Nigeria’s growing global recognition, citing its inclusion in _Time Magazine’s_ list of top AI-ready countries as evidence of Africa’s rising influence in the AI landscape.
Head of Communications and Public Affairs at the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Commission (NDIC), Hawwau Gambo, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to fostering innovation while ensuring consumer protection. “Our policies must support the brilliant minds driving AI innovation without stifling their creativity,” Gambo said. She added,
“At the same time, we need regulations that safeguard end users, ensuring no one is left behind in this technological transformation.”
CEO of Saban Media Services, Leah Katung-Babatunde, described the colloquium as a platform to bridge communication gaps and shape Nigeria’s AI future.
“AI is already transforming healthcare, agriculture, and public services,” she noted. “But with its vast potential comes the responsibility to establish ethical frameworks that promote inclusivity and equity.”
Katung-Babatunde emphasized that the discussions aim to lay the foundation for a forward-thinking AI policy that balances innovation with societal values.
The colloquium underscored Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing AI’s transformative power responsibly, fostering partnerships, and ensuring policies that drive national development while protecting citizens.
