The South Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, Kim Pan-Kyu, has reiterated his country’s commitment to enhancing digitisation in Nigeria.

Mr Kim reiterated this on Wednesday in Abuja during the inauguration of the Nigerian-Korean Information Access Center (IAC), established to foster digital literacy, innovation, and research while developing homegrown solutions in artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and cybersecurity.

He said the initiative funded by South Korea would help transform Nigeria’s digital potential into a reality, fostering digital literacy, innovation, and research.

The ambassador highlighted the importance of digital transformation for economic growth: “South Korea, advanced in technology and innovation, is ready to partner with Nigeria to harness its digital potential.”

Mr Pan-kyu affirmed that young Nigerian talents would be trained to contribute to the digital economy.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, expressed appreciation to the South Korean government for supporting Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, noting that the collaboration strengthens bilateral ties in technology advancement.

He also said that the centre would drive digital inclusion, ensuring all Nigerians, regardless of background, have access to ICT tools and skills.

The minister said the centre aligns with the national AI policy by fostering a culture of innovation, capacity building, and ethical AI practices.

Mr Tijani added that addressing critical areas such as data labelling would enable the development of AI solutions tailored to local challenges.

Also, President of South Korea’s National Information Society Agency (NIA), Jong-Sung Hwang, said Nigeria was chosen for the initiative due to its strong commitment to AI advancement.

Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Aminu Maida, emphasised that the partnership with South Korea’s NIA would position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s digital economy, enhancing its global competitiveness.

IAC is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including computer labs, an AI development centre, a digital lounge, training rooms, a mobile IAC, and an electronic resource library, which is set to play a vital role in Nigeria’s digital transformation. 

(NAN)