Nigeria’s technology agency advocates for the integration of AI to bolster security measures.

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) of Nigeria is pushing for the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) into the country’s security framework to enhance its digital initiatives and global presence. In a private meeting with the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS), NITDA’s director-general, Kashifu Inuwa, discussed the potential benefits of integrating AI and other technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) in the security sector.
Inuwa highlighted the different approaches employed by the security and IT sectors and emphasized the potential for collaboration to improve security outcomes. He emphasized the NITDA’s commitment to forming meaningful partnerships, aligning with their Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), particularly in the pillar that focuses on building strategic collaborations.
In November 2023, NITDA called for collaboration between the agency, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and financial institutions to leverage emerging technologies like AI and data analytics to enhance digital payments. Inuwa further explained the importance of AI as a global driving force, dispelling misconceptions and emphasizing its ability to simplify tasks, provide quick responses, and offer solutions.
The NISS commandant, Alhaji A.S. Adeleke, expressed the institute’s eagerness to learn from NITDA’s experiences. He stated that the NISS aims to gather valuable insights to inform an executive brief for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, with the goal of aiding policy development and implementation.
NITDA is actively promoting AI growth in Nigeria through initiatives such as the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) and the development of the National Artificial Intelligence Policy. In October, the Nigerian government announced grants of 5 million naira ($6,444) to 45 AI-focused startups and researchers as part of the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme, which aims to drive economic advancement through the widespread utilization of AI.
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