Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) has sounded the alarm, warning that Nigeria risks missing out on a whopping $1.2 trillion share of the global AI economy by 2030 if it doesn’t act fast. According to NIGCOMSAT’s Managing Director, Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, the country needs to put the right policies and innovations in place to harness the potential of artificial intelligence.
Speaking after the 12th Regular Meeting of the National Council for Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy in Makurdi, Benue State, Egerton-Idehen emphasized that AI is transforming industries, economies, and societies worldwide. She cited a PricewaterhouseCoopers report, which projects that AI will contribute up to $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030.
Egerton-Idehen highlighted the potential of AI in agriculture, particularly in Benue State, Nigeria’s “food basket.” She explained that machine learning tools could revolutionize agricultural practices by improving pest detection and optimizing planting schedules using satellite imagery.
However, Egerton-Idehen noted that internet access remains a significant barrier to AI adoption in Nigeria. As of early 2024, only 45.5% of Nigerians had access to the internet. “For AI tools to be effective, basic digital infrastructure is essential. Addressing this gap must be a priority,” she stressed.
In August 2024, the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy released a draft National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, aiming to position Nigeria as a global leader in AI. The draft strategy outlines strategic pillars for responsible AI development and seeks to foster a robust ecosystem for innovation.
Egerton-Idehen expressed optimism and urgency, noting the rapid pace of AI advancements globally. “AI is happening. We have the opportunity to manage this technology revolution responsibly, both in Africa and globally, through innovation and governance.”
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