Nigeria mustn’t arrive late to the AI table

Nigeria must urgently address its position in the global artificial intelligence conversation, moving beyond casual use of tools like ChatGPT to actively shape the future of AI. The world is rapidly advancing in AI development, governance, and application, as evidenced by large-scale international conferences like the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai.

The scale of global AI engagement, involving technology industries, researchers, policymakers, and investors, demands Nigeria's attention. The debate has shifted from whether AI will transform economies to who will build, own, and govern these powerful systems, and whose data and cultures will be represented. Nigeria must strive to be more than a consumer of AI technology.

Historically, Nigeria has been late to major technological revolutions, including the personal computer and internet eras, often becoming enthusiastic users rather than creators. However, the country possesses a dynamic technology sector, a thriving startup ecosystem, and a generation of young innovators capable of competing globally.

The critical question now is whether this entrepreneurial spirit can be channeled into significant leadership in artificial intelligence. The article prompts a self-assessment: Where are Nigeria's leading tech companies and AI startups in developing models and tools that understand African realities? The nation's future in the AI-driven world depends on its proactive engagement and investment in this transformative field.