Massive AI deployment’ll transform Nigeria’s economy before 2030

Orisemeke Benjamin

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Dr Kashifu Inuwa, has predicted that with the deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other technologies in solving everyday economic and other challenges, Nigeria he said can become a trillion dollars economy before year 2030.

Inuwa, who specifically advocated that every Nigerians should by now digitally fluent in order to achieve an inclusive growth added: ” The President Bola Tinubu’s administration is already embracing AI and other digital technology to enable it drive sectors like education, social investment, agriculture, trade, policy, infrastructure and even help improve governance”.

The DG, who was a keynote speaker at the 3rd Annual Economic Confidential Lecture and PRNigeria book presentation in Abuja on Wednesday stated further that the deployment of AI and other technologies would help Nigeria’s solve economic diversification challenges, drives its economy into a prosperous one, enhance growth in the fourth global industrial revolution, and would aid general development.

There was a group of technology and economic experts at the event who also canvassed the same position.

Among the experts are Dr Tope Fasuwa, Special Adviser to the President on Economic Matters, and Dr Afolabi Olajunwon of the Budget Office of the Federation among others.

The hallmark of the event was the unveiling of three books tagged “trilogy” by the organiser.

While making his speech, the NITDA DG further declared that the digital economy, using AI, has the potential of driving Nigeria’s economy up to 20% GDP if strategically harnessed.

He emphasized that artificial intelligence is no longer optional but essential, adding “Those who fail to upskill will be replaced. AI can free up 20 per cent of time for higher productivity. Nations leading in AI will lead the world.”

Inuwa added: “Nigeria cannot afford to miss the Fourth Industrial Revolution, after losing out in the first three revolutions.

“There is an ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Education to build digital literacy into Nigeria educational system, national curriculum and with the office of Head of Service of the Federation to enhance civil service training.

“Market women can now connect with customers through mobile technology. But as we connect, we must also protect and cybersecurity is a critical pillar.”

Earlier in his remarks, President & Chairman of Council, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku, said Nigeria should seize the opportunity presented by technology to grow its economy.

According to him, the $1 trillion economy target is achievable if tech is efficiently utilised.

Dr. Neliaku, who was represented by Fellow, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon, said the authorities must build capacity, invest in infrastructure, and create policies that would enable innovation to thrive.

“Our task is clear: we must ensure that Nigeria’s participation in the digital global economy is inclusive, innovative, and sustainable.

“The theme, “Renewed Hope Agenda for a Digital Global Economy,” could not have been timelier. We are living in a period where technology is reshaping governance, trade, education, healthcare, and every aspect of human endeavour. Nations that fail to embrace the digital revolution risk being left behind, while those that seize the opportunity can leapfrog barriers to growth and development.

“Nigeria, blessed with a dynamic youth population, abundant talent, and a spirit of innovation, must advance its embrace of this new reality. The Renewed Hope Agenda challenges us to harness technology not merely as consumers but as creators, innovators, and exporters of digital solutions. To achieve this, collaboration among government, private sector, academia, and the media is not optional, it is critical and essential.

“This lecture serves as a reminder of the African proverb: “When spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion.” By joining forces, policymakers, industry leaders, academics, and the media, we harness our collective strength and wisdom to chart a shared path toward a more prosperous Nigeria,” he said.

Earlier, the organiser, Yushau A. Shuaib, CEO of Nigeria Economic Confidential, said the time has come for Nigeria the authorities to reposition the economy through the massive deployment of technology. Even as he said the PRNIgeria will continue to carry out its function of mentoring young Nigerians.

He said, “This year’s lecture seeks to deepen national conversations on how Nigeria can harness digital transformation and technological innovation to reposition its economy on the global stage.

“Similarly, through our PRNigeria Centres in Abuja, Kano, and Ilorin, we mentor aspiring communicators and emerging professionals. Next month, we will host the second edition of the PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship—an intensive programme designed to cultivate expertise in Developmental Journalism, Social Media Engagement, Artificial Intelligence, and Strategic Communication.

“In line with our tradition of combining robust policy dialogue with knowledge-driven publications, our integrated communication culture ensures that our staff are not only journalists but also published authors. Nearly 70% of our workforce has authored or co-authored well-researched publications on contemporary issues. Today’s unveiling of three additional titles, including one co-authored by serving corps members, is further proof of this tradition.

Highlight of the event was the launch of three groundbreaking books by young journalists: Renewed Hope in Central Banking by Rahman Oladosu; Healing Nigeria: Chronicle of Health by Lawal Mamman and Maimuna Aliyu and Diplomacy and Digital Innovation: Youth Insight by Fatimah Usman.