The Special Adviser to the President on policy and coordination, Hadiza Usman, says Nigeria is committed to becoming one of the global leaders in Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Ms Usman stated this at the colloquium on AI Policy in Nigeria, with the theme “Navigating Opportunities and Challenges for National Development,” in Abuja on Thursday.

According to her, Nigeria aims to be among the top 50 AI-ready countries.

Ms Usman, represented by Khalifa Nuhu, head of the Central Results Delivery and Coordination Unit, said there was a need for leadership, vision, investment, and partnerships to achieve the country’s AI goals.

She called for collaboration with local and international partners, including public and academic sectors, for successful AI implementation.

Ms Usman emphasised the importance of contextualising AI policies to address the country’s specific problems and challenges.

”Open-mindedness and acknowledgment of concerns are crucial for effective AI policy development and implementation.

”Africa’s participation in the AI space, with Nigeria making significant strides, as evidenced by its inclusion in Times Magazine’s list of top AI-ready countries,” she said.

Hawwau Gambo, the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Commission (NDIC) spokesperson, reiterated the commission’s commitment to policies and partnerships that leverage technology to protect depositors.

Ms Gambo said the commission would strengthen the confidence of the financial system for the betterment of the nation.

She said that all the creative technological minds innovating products and services using AI were not stifled by the policy.

“We have to find a way to make sure that whatever regulation or whatever policies are being brought out does not stifle the innovation that is happening.

“So as we reflect on how Nigeria can harness AI responsibly, we have to ensure that no one is left behind in its transformation,” Ms Gambo said.

Ms Gambo pledged the NDIC’s commitment to policies and partnerships that leverage technology to protect depositors and strengthen confidence in the financial system.

The chief executive officer, Saban Media Services, Leah Katung-Babatunde, said artificial intelligence was presented as a transformative technology with immense potential in healthcare, agriculture, and public services.

The CEO said the conversation would lay the groundwork for a robust and forward-thinking AI policy that fostered innovation while safeguarding values and people.

“Our colloquium today, AI Policy in Nigeria: Navigating the opportunities and challenges for national development, is a testament to the relevance of our mission,” Ms Katung-Babatunde said.

(NAN)