:introduction – Artificial Intelligence (AI) in a Nigerian context is the science and engineering of creating machines that can simulate human intelligence.
It encompasses machine learning, neural networks, natural language processing, robotics, and cognitive computing, among others.
AI enables systems to learn from data, recognize patterns, make decisions, and adapt over time without explicit human intervention.
For over four decades, AI has evolved from theoretical constructs into real-world applications that redefine industries, economies, and societies.
According to PwC, AI could contribute up to $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with $1.2 trillion projected for Africa.
Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy with a GDP of $477 billion (World Bank, 2023), must strategically position itself to capture a significant share of this AI-driven economic growth.
AI as a Driver of National Productivity
AI’s influence extends across multiple sectors, offering transformative solutions to long-standing challenges.
1. Agriculture and Food Security
• Nigeria’s agricultural sector employs about 35% of the workforce but contributes only 24% to GDP (NBS, 2023). AI-driven precision farming could boost crop yields by 30% and reduce post harvest losses by 20%.
• AI-enabled drones can analyze 10 hectares per hour, identifying soil deficiencies and pest infestations.
2. Healthcare and Medical Advancements
• Nigeria has a doctor-to-patient ratio of 1:5,000, far from the WHO-recommended 1:600. Air Powered diagnostic tools could bridge this gap by automating early disease detection.
• AI-assisted radiology reduces diagnostic errors by 25%, significantly improving patient outcomes.
3. Financial Services and Economic Inclusion
• Nigeria’s fintech sector, valued at $2 billion, is growing at 15% per year (McKinsey, 2023).
AI-driven credit scoring could increase financial inclusion for 36 million unbanked Nigerians.
• AI-powered fraud detection reduces cyber fraud incidents by 40%, securing digital transactions.
4. Manufacturing and Industrial Growth
• AI-enabled automation in manufacturing could increase industrial output by 20% and reduce waste by 15%.
• Predictive maintenance powered by AI minimizes equipment downtime, saving companies $100 million annually (Deloitte, 2023).
Building Nigeria’s AI Ecosystem
Nigeria must focus on three core pillars:
1. Policy and Regulation: Establish clear AI governance to guide ethical use and data privacy.
2. Infrastructure Development: Expand AI research hubs and high-performance computing centers.
3. Talent Development: Train 500,000 AI professionals by 2030 to drive innovation.
Conclusion: Beyond Rhetoric to Execution
AI is not a luxury, it is a necessity. With AI expected to boost Africa’s GDP by 5–15%, Nigeria must act swiftly to integrate AI across industries and drive national transformation.
Engr. Nwaulune Augustine Kaonyegwachie, PhD, FNSE, is a Senior Global Communications Industry Expert and Analyst.