AI as a Strategic Partner: Insights from NITDA's Director General at the BusinessDay CEO Forum
The Director General of Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, addressed business leaders at the BusinessDay CEO Forum in Lagos, urging them to see Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a collaborator rather than a competitor. His message was clear: AI is a “thought partner” that can boost innovation, uncover new business models, and sharpen competitiveness amid global economic shifts.
Inuwa emphasized that AI should not be viewed as a replacement for human workers. Instead, it will change certain tasks by taking over specific skills and processes. He encouraged executives to integrate AI thoughtfully by assigning it well-defined roles—such as virtual assistants, legal advisors, or business analysts—to achieve purposeful and effective collaboration.
Balancing Optimism with Caution
While AI offers vast potential, Inuwa warned against assuming it is always accurate or ethical. He advised treating AI as if it were the worst version of itself until proven otherwise, keeping vigilance at the forefront of AI adoption. This cautious approach ensures businesses maintain ethical standards and protect stakeholders.
He also highlighted NITDA’s proactive regulatory strategy. Instead of imposing strict limitations out of fear, the agency partners with the private sector to test solutions in “policy labs.” This allows evidence-based policymaking that supports innovation while safeguarding public interests.
Driving Nigeria’s Digital Economy
In another session, Inuwa reaffirmed the government’s focus on digital literacy as essential for economic growth and social inclusion. He outlined the Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) Initiative, targeting 70% digital literacy by 2027 across all demographics, from students to underserved communities. The initiative uses mobile campaigns, training hubs, and online platforms to equip Nigerians with skills needed in today's economy.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s digital progress, Inuwa noted the leap from fewer than 500,000 computer users in the early 2000s to over 130 million internet users today. The ICT sector now contributes more than 17% to GDP, supported by milestones like the National IT Policy (2001), the NITDA Act (2007), and strategic ICT integration efforts since 2012.
Aligning with National Economic Reform
Inuwa connected these digital advances to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes digital innovation to diversify and strengthen Nigeria’s economy. According to Inuwa, technology simplifies processes and accelerates development across critical sectors including education, healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, governance, and creative industries.
He reminded business leaders and policymakers that economic reform is continuous, requiring constant adaptation and openness to new technologies. NITDA’s roadmap includes:
- Promoting digital literacy and talent development
- Expanding access to digital infrastructure and services
- Strengthening legal and policy frameworks
- Enhancing cybersecurity and digital trust
- Supporting research, innovation, and entrepreneurship
- Building public-private partnerships
- Fostering an agile, forward-thinking workforce within NITDA
These pillars are practical strategies focused on inclusive growth and competitiveness in the digital economy.
Preparing Nigeria for a Digital Future
Inuwa closed by stressing that Nigeria’s future depends on preparing its citizens to thrive in a digital environment. Properly implemented, the country’s digital strategy will create jobs, stimulate innovation, and position Nigeria as a global player in digital markets. Digital skills development is no longer optional—it is fundamental to sustainable national progress.
The BusinessDay CEO Forum offered a valuable platform for business leaders to engage in discussions about scaling digital transformation through collaboration. With leaders like Inuwa championing responsible technology adoption, Nigeria is set to balance innovation with governance for broad-based benefits.
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