At a recent colloquium on Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy in Abuja, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, Hadiza Usman, underscored Nigeria’s ambition to emerge as a leading player in the global AI landscape. Speaking on the theme “Navigating Opportunities and Challenges for National Development,” she explained that the country has set its sights on ranking among the top 50 AI-ready nations worldwide.

Represented by Khalifa Nuhu, who heads the Central Results Delivery and Coordination Unit, Ms. Usman highlighted the importance of leadership, vision, investment, and strategic partnerships in achieving this goal. She stressed that successful AI adoption in Nigeria will require strong collaboration between government, academia, private organizations, and international partners. To be effective, she argued, AI policies must be tailored to Nigeria’s unique social and economic realities rather than copied wholesale from other nations. She also emphasized the need for inclusivity, transparency, and responsiveness in policy design, noting that Africa, and Nigeria in particular, is beginning to gain recognition on the global AI stage.

Hawwau Gambo, spokesperson for the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Commission (NDIC), reinforced this view, affirming that the commission supports technological innovations that strengthen the financial system. She pointed out that regulations should not hinder creativity or suppress innovation, especially as Nigerian entrepreneurs continue to develop AI-driven products and services. Instead, policy frameworks must balance protection with flexibility, ensuring that innovation thrives while depositors and the financial system remain secure.

Also speaking at the event, Leah Katung-Babatunde, Chief Executive Officer of Saban Media Services, described AI as a transformative tool with the potential to revolutionize key sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and public services. She noted that the discussions at the colloquium represent a significant step toward formulating a forward-looking AI policy that promotes innovation while upholding societal values and safeguarding citizens. According to her, the gathering reaffirmed the urgency of aligning Nigeria’s national development goals with the opportunities AI presents.

Together, the speakers agreed that Nigeria’s AI journey will depend on inclusive policymaking, international collaboration, and a commitment to harnessing technology responsibly for national growth and development.