On Tuesday, experts and industry captains gathered at the University of Lagos to brainstorm on equitable partnerships and the future of artificial intelligence in Africa.

UNILAG’s vice-chancellor, Folasade Ogunsola, who declared the week open, said, “Today, we are not simply discussing technology. We are shaping the narrative of inclusion, innovation, and global equity in the age of Artificial Intelligence.

“We are doing so from the African continent, rich in talent, ideas, and ready for transformation. AI is not the future; it is the present. Yet, for Africa, AI represents something deeper. It is an opportunity to leapfrog limitations, to reimagine education, healthcare, governance, and industry.”

She added that the foundation must ensure an equitable partnership for AI to serve Africa. She added that the university was committed to becoming a hub of excellence in Artificial Intelligence, innovation, and interdisciplinary research, one that reflects both global standards and African realities.

One of the keynote speakers, Yvonne Ike, the managing director and head of sub-Saharan Africa at Bank of America, underscored Nigeria’s immense creative capacity. Ms Ike advocated for strategic partnerships with global research institutions to propel the country’s technological advancement and global positioning.

She highlighted Nigeria’s globally influential creative outputs in spite of the unconventional paths.

Another keynote speaker, Emmanuel Lubanzadio, African lead at OpenAI, officially announced the launch of the OpenAI Academy in Africa.

Mr Lubanzadio recounted seeking to travel to Africa, highlighting how AI is solving critical problems.

(NAN)