DG NITDA pledges continued support to startups in advancing AI research in Nigeria
As part of efforts in implementing the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s (GCFR) Renewed Hope Agenda of accelerating diversification through industrialisation and digitisation, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa CCIE has pledged the government’s continued commitment to supporting starting startups in the country with necessary resources and initiatives in advancing the research of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the country.
Inuwa made this known at the Innovate Nigeria 2024 Conference & Expo which was held at the Landmark Event Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos where he gave a thought-provoking keynote address on the role of government in advancing AI research and its implications for Nigeria’s economic future.
The DG who was represented by the Agency’s Director, Corporate Planning and Strategy Department, Dr Aristotle Onumo expressed gratitude to Nova Tech for organising and hosting the conference while emphasising its timely nature amidst the rapid acceleration of AI’s transformative potential globally.
“There could not have been any better time to hold such a conference than now when the rapid acceleration of Artificial Intelligence presents an intriguing paradox, as its seemingly limitless potential promises to revolutionise every facet of life”, he said.
Addressing the perspectives of government involvement in AI research, Inuwa began by citing global trends where governments including the US and China have allocated significant funds for AI research through their recognition of its innovation drive and economic growth potential.
He underscored the positive correlation between government investment and advancements in AI, highlighting its projected market value surpassing $190 billion by 2025.
While speaking on the Nigerian government’s contributions to AI research, Inuwa outlined key initiatives which include direct investment in research and development, establishment of collaborative ecosystems, formulation of policies
