AI can transform Nigeria’s economy- NITDA

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has identified artificial intelligence (AI) as a less costly and far-reaching tool that can power the economy in the near future.

The National Director, of the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), a subsidiary of NITDA, Yau Garba, stated this at the NITDA-NYSC Emerging Technology for All programmes, in Abuja.

Mr Garba said the programme was aimed at realizing the NITDA Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP) 2021–2024 goal by preparing and positioning Corps Members to take advantage of opportunities presented by emerging technologies.

Mr Garba, represented by the Head, Collaboration and Funding Unit, NCAIR, Yusuf Abubakar said the tool (AI) has the potential to automate specific tasks and jobs, which is likely to replace humans in some areas.

According to him, AI is best suited for handling repetitive, data-driven tasks and making data-driven decisions, hence the NITDA-NYSC partnership’s goal of positioning Nigeria as a global talent factory.

He emphasised the agency’s role in scaling up awareness and adoption of emerging technologies in Nigeria.

Blessing Daniel, Head of Administration and Corporate Advocacy, Unit NCAIR, highlighted different programmes intended to scale awareness and adoption of emerging technologies.

She said the aim was to empower the corps members with the necessary skills to extend their knowledge in place of primary assignments.