The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has affirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to supporting start-ups in advancing Artificial Intelligence (AI) research in Nigeria.
This commitment was reiterated at the Innovate Nigeria 2024 Conference & Expo held at the Landmark Event Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos.
Represented by Dr. Aristotle Onumo, Director of Corporate Planning and Strategy Department at NITDA, Inuwa expressed gratitude to Nova Tech for organizing the conference and highlighted its timeliness amid the rapid acceleration of AI’s transformative potential globally.
In addressing the role of government in AI research, Inuwa cited global examples such as the United States and China, where significant funds have been allocated for AI research, acknowledging its potential for innovation and economic growth. He emphasized the positive correlation between government investment and advancements in AI, projecting a market value surpassing $190 billion by 2025.
Inuwa outlined key initiatives by the Nigerian government in AI research, including direct investment in research and development, establishment of collaborative ecosystems, formulation of policies and regulations, fostering international collaboration, and supporting education and workforce development. These initiatives align with the government’s 8-point agenda, particularly emphasizing the creation of an enabling environment for innovation and entrepreneurship.
He stated, “The 7th agenda, which is Accelerating Diversification through Industrialization, Digitization, Creative Arts, Manufacturing, and Innovation resonates with the specific role of government in AI research upon which democratization of digital service to create more economic value anchors.”
NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan were highlighted as tools aiming to elevate the country’s AI research ranking and foster digital literacy and talent development. Inuwa emphasized the transformative potential of AI in driving economic prosperity and stressed the importance of collaboration between the government and the ecosystem for exploring new frontiers of knowledge.
He further highlighted NITDA’s subsidiary, the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, as a resource open 24/7 to guide, nurture, and support startups throughout their journey from ideation to impact and commercialization.
In conclusion, Inuwa underscored the significance of collaboration and partnership frameworks to fund research, emphasizing the government’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant innovation ecosystem.
