AI Partnership: USA and Nigeria Foster Economic Growth

The United States of America (U.S.A) and Nigeria are planning to have discussions on the potential partnership opportunities in the digital economy, emerging technology, and the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI). This information was revealed by Mr. Arthur Brown, the Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy, during the closing ceremony of a workshop on National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in Abuja. Senior officials from the U.S. government are expected to convene in Abuja within two weeks for a conference organized by the U.S.-Nigeria Bi-National Commission. The United States aims to capitalize on the momentum generated by the workshop by organizing an AI conference in Lagos to strengthen economic ties and ensure safe and secure AI deployment.

Mr. Brown expressed that the United States is ready to collaborate with Nigeria as equitable partners in talent development, infrastructure, research, and innovation initiatives. He commended Nigeria for endorsing a significant United Nations resolution on AI and reiterated the commitment of the U.S. government to the ongoing partnership with Nigeria in the realm of the economy. Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications Innovation and Digital Economy, emphasized the importance of African governments and leaders taking decisive action to support their aspirations and strategies. A study by PricewaterhouseCoopers predicts that artificial intelligence could contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with a significant portion coming from enhanced productivity and novel goods and services.

Instead of prioritizing revenue generation, Tijani stressed the need for Nigeria to establish effective governance for AI, recognizing it as a critical tool to enhance productivity across various sectors. In collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC), the Ministry organized a four-day Artificial Intelligence workshop to develop a collaborative framework for implementing AI in the country. As a result of this workshop, Nigeria launched its first Multilingual large language model (LLM), aiming to take a leadership position in AI development in Africa. The Nigerian government has also invited scientists of Nigerian heritage and globally renowned experts to collaborate in formulating its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, showcasing its commitment to advancing AI in the country.