The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in Nigeria is actively advancing the country's digital agenda and global presence by advocating for the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into Nigeria's security framework. Director General Kashifu Inuwa discussed this initiative in a closed-door meeting with National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) Commander Alhaji A.S. Adeleke, who was represented by Deputy Commander D. E. Egbeji.
In the meeting, Inuwa underscored the importance of collaboration between the security and information technology (IT) departments to harness technologies like AI and the Internet of Things (IoT) for enhancing security measures. He emphasized NITDA's commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships, aligning with the agency's Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), particularly in the aspect of building strategic collaborations.
Notably, in November 2023, NITDA advocated for collaboration between itself, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and financial institutions to leverage emerging technologies like AI and data analytics for enhancing digital payments. Inuwa elaborated on the transformative potential of AI, dispelling misconceptions and highlighting its efficacy in simplifying tasks, delivering prompt responses, and offering solutions.
Commander Adeleke expressed keen interest in learning from NITDA's experience, emphasizing NISS's objective of gathering insights for executive briefing sessions aimed at aiding policy formulation and implementation. Adeleke outlined their aim to present an executive briefing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, focusing on policy development and implementation.
NITDA's efforts to promote AI development in Nigeria extend through initiatives like the National Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) and the formulation of a National AI Policy. Additionally, the Nigerian government's announcement of grants totaling 5 million naira ($6,444) to 45 AI-focused startups and researchers underscores the country's commitment to fostering AI innovation for driving economic advancement.
