AI and Digital Innovation Poised to Drive Nigeria’s Economic Future, Experts Say

Written By: Flipbz.org

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital innovation are set to propel Nigeria toward a new era of inclusive prosperity, according to Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), speaking at the 3rd Annual Economic Confidential Public Lecture organized by Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR).

In his keynote address, Inuwa described AI as a transformative force capable of overcoming Nigeria’s traditional developmental challenges. He projected that AI could automate up to 30 percent of economic tasks, potentially boosting GDP growth by 20 percent. “AI creates a cycle of innovation, where each advancement sparks further breakthroughs,” he said, citing the example of a Kaduna farmer who doubled her crop yield using an AI-powered advisory app. “This is AI’s promise: turning challenges into opportunities and poverty into prosperity.”

Inuwa outlined Nigeria’s digital transformation strategy, which includes the National AI Strategy, the restructuring of the National Centre for AI and Robotics, and support for over 45 AI startups through the Nigeria AI Research Scheme. Collaborations with global tech giants like Google and Nigerian universities are also accelerating AI adoption. With over 130 million internet users, a youthful population with a median age of 17, and a thriving startup ecosystem, Nigeria is well-positioned to lead Africa’s digital revolution, he noted.

He highlighted initiatives like the Digital Literacy for All (DL4All) program, which has trained over 300,000 Nigerians, and the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s goal of creating two million digital jobs. Inuwa called for government support through regulatory sandboxes, research incentives, and investments in digital infrastructure, citing the Nigeria Startup Act, which has recognized 180 startups, and partnerships with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for an $11.2 million Abuja Startup Hub and a $40 million startup seed fund.

“Nigeria isn’t waiting for the future—we’re building it now,” Inuwa declared. “Through investment, innovation, and collaboration, we’re turning the AI revolution into a Nigerian prosperity revolution.”

Yushau A. Shuaib, Editor-in-Chief of Economic Confidential and IMPR founder, emphasized AI’s transformative impact on journalism and public relations. “At PRNigeria, AI enhances agility, data-driven decisions, and impact in communications without replacing the human connection,” he said, noting its use in audience analysis, media monitoring, content automation, and crisis detection.

Shuaib reflected on the lecture series’ evolution, from its 2023 focus on economic diversification to 2024’s emphasis on food security, and this year’s spotlight on Nigeria’s role in the global digital economy. He also celebrated IMPR’s intellectual contributions, with 70 percent of its staff having authored books. Three new titles were unveiled at the event: *Renewed Hope in Central Banking* by Rahma Oladosu, *Healing Nigeria: A Chronicle of Health Reform and Hope* by Maimuna Katuka and Dahiru Mamman, and *Diplomacy and Digital Innovation: Youths’ Insights* by Fatimah Usman and Faruk Bala. Shuaib also announced the second edition of the PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship to train emerging communicators in AI and strategic media.

Tope Fasuan, Special Adviser to the President on Economic Matters, urged Nigeria to leverage digital innovation under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He pointed to the growth of fintech, e-commerce, and Nollywood but cautioned about challenges like a shrinking manufacturing sector (16.7% of GDP), a large informal economy (42.5%), and declining per capita income ($1,095 in 2024). Fasuan advocated for formalizing the digital economy, reviving manufacturing through reduced infrastructure costs, and investing in digital literacy and vocational training.

Dr. Ike Neliaku, President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), represented by Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon, warned that nations ignoring digital innovation risk falling behind. He praised the new books as tools for informed decision-making. Other speakers, including Major General Chris Olukolade (Rtd) and Dr. Sule Yau Sule, lauded IMPR’s role in fostering dialogue on economic reform and digital transformation.

The event, attended by policymakers, academics, PR professionals, and digital experts, solidified IMPR’s position as a key player in shaping Nigeria’s digital and economic narrative.