Technology and economic experts on Wednesday in Abuja urged the deployment of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to drive Nigeria’s efforts toward economic diversification and development.

They particularly advocated the adoption of AI to boost Nigeria’s participation in the fourth industrial revolution.

At a one-day lecture organised by Economic Confidential, the experts identified AI as a vital tool for Nigeria’s economic transformation.

Director-general of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, delivering the keynote address, said the digital economy, powered by AI, could contribute significantly to GDP.

He noted that AI could add up to 20 per cent to Nigeria’s gross domestic product if strategically harnessed.

“Artificial intelligence is no longer optional but essential. Those who fail to upskill will be replaced. AI can free 20 per cent of time for productivity,” he said.

Mr Inuwa warned that Nigeria could not afford to miss the Fourth Industrial Revolution, having already lagged behind in the previous three.

He disclosed that NITDA was working with the ministry of education to integrate digital literacy into the national curriculum and with the Head of Service for civil service training.

“Market women can now connect with customers through mobile technology. But as we connect, we must also protect. Cybersecurity remains a critical pillar,” he stressed.

Also speaking, the president of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), represented by Afolabi Olajunwon, warned that nations failing to embrace the digital revolution risk being left behind.

He emphasised that Nigeria must not only adopt technology but also aim to become an exporter, leading Africa’s participation in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

“Nigeria is blessed with abundant talent but must develop the drive to harness technology not just as consumers, but as creators and exporters,” he stated.

He further urged Nigerian leaders to collaborate with global policymakers to chart new pathways to national prosperity.

In his remarks, the special adviser to the president on the economy in the office of the vice president, Tope Fasuwa, represented by Aremu Olayinka Elijah, reaffirmed government commitment.

He said President Bola Tinubu remained determined to recalibrate Nigeria’s economy, noting that rebased economic data showed measurable progress.

“We are shifting from traditional models to a tech-driven future,” he added, describing the service sector as a great equaliser in the emerging economy.

The event also featured the launch of three books authored by young journalists.

The books are Renewed Hope in Central Banking by Rahman Oladosu; Healing Nigeria: Chronicle of Health by Lawal Mamman and Maimuna Aliyu; and Diplomacy and Digital Innovation: Youth Insight by Fatimah Usman.

Earlier, organiser and chief executive officer of Economic Confidential, Yushau Shuaib, described the books as vital tools for evidence-based policy and decision-making.

(NAN)