Inuwa, DG NITDA Cautions on AI as Nigeria Seeks Inclusive Global Governance

Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General/CEO of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has emphasized on the dual nature of artificial intelligence (AI) as both an opportunity and a challenge.

Represented by Mr. Emmanuel Edet, Director of Standard Guidelines and Framework, NITDA, while delivering a keynote speech on the third day of Nigeria Fintech Week, said: “We must consider not just the immense potential of artificial intelligence, but also our responsibility in shaping their development and employment,”.

Speaking on the topic: Global AI Regulation: The Role Of Africa And The Global South, the Director General stated that while AI presents unparalleled opportunities for growth, innovation, and problem-solving, it also poses unique challenges requiring careful consideration and proactive measures.

He pointed out, “As we witness the rapid deployment of AI technologies, primarily in the global north, it is crucial that we, the nations of Africa and the global south, assert our place in this evolving landscape.”

He stressed that participation in this AI revolution is not merely beneficial but essential to ensure that AI serves the interests of all humanity, rather than just a privileged few in advanced countries.

Dr. Abdullahi noted that the regulatory landscape for AI is still in its infancy. “While nations like the United States, China, and the European Union are making strides in developing AI governance frameworks, this effort often reflects their specific contexts and priorities,” he explained. “However, AI’s impact will be global; it is already global, and its regulation must be global as well.”

He elaborated on the complexities of AI, saying, “As with most powerful technologies, AI presents both opportunities and challenges. Issues of data privacy, algorithmic bias, job displacement, and geopolitical competition underscore the need for a clear, fair, and inclusive regulatory regime.”

He asserted that the voices of the global south, particularly Africa, must be at the heart of these discussions to ensure that regulations consider diverse cultural, economic, and social contexts.

“The challenges and opportunities presented by AI in Lagos, Nairobi, or Johannesburg may differ significantly from those in Silicon Valley or even Shanghai,” he noted, stressing the need for targeted solutions that reflect local realities.

Dr. Abdullahi called for collective advocacy from Africa and the global south for inclusivity in global AI governance. He stated, “Our unique context and challenges—such as infrastructure gaps, education systems, and social values—must be considered.”

 Speaking further, he outlined some of NITDA’s initiatives to ensure a solid AI framework in Nigeria. “As DG of NITDA, my driving force for the first AI revolution has been the development of the national AI strategy and the establishment of the National Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics,” he said. “These aim to foster research and development of AI and to create a transforming and inclusive AI ecosystem.”

Speaking on NITDA’s focus on promoting responsible AI deployment, Dr. Abdullahi said “We are dedicated to advancing sustainable development, investing in research and development infrastructure, and creating a robust AI governance framework,” he affirmed, placing a focus on the role of collaboration among stakeholders. “We must form strategic alliances to amplify our authentic voice in global AI models, group organisations, and the African Union.”

Giving a solid closing statement, he said, “While Africa and the global south may not currently be at the forefront of AI nations, we have a critical role today in shaping its regulatory future. Together, we can shift and react.”