U.S. and Nigeria discuss development of digital economy and AI for economic growth
The United States and Nigeria are ready to explore potential partnership opportunities in the areas of the digital economy, emerging technologies, and advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). The aim of these discussions is to strengthen economic relations between the two countries and promote closer cooperation in this field.
The U.S. Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission, Arthur Brown, announced that senior U.S. officials will travel to Abuja for meetings under the auspices of the U.S.-Nigeria Bilateral Committee. The meeting will provide a platform for the two countries to discuss the digital economy, emerging technologies and advances in AI.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the four-day National Artificial Intelligence Strategy Workshop in Abuja, Mr. Brown emphasized the importance of fostering partnerships and working together to drive strong, resilient and inclusive economic growth. The United States stands ready to work with Nigeria as an equal partner in a variety of areas, including talent development, infrastructure, research, and innovation. Mr. Brown also praised Nigeria’s support of the adoption of a landmark United Nations resolution on AI and pledged that the U.S. government would continue to partner with Nigeria in the economic sphere.
Nigeria has seen a growing interest in AI and emerging technologies in recent years. In November 2020, the country marked a significant moment in the country’s commitment to AI by establishing Africa’s first National Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR). NCAIR was established in line with Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy 2020-2030, which lists AI as one of the eight pillars of the country’s digital economy.
Since the founding of NCAIR, AI has featured more prominently in government policy efforts. NCAIR has launched a program to teach children coding and machine learning skills to make them proficient in AI and other emerging technologies. The Nigerian government has also directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to provide AI research grants to tertiary institutions to drive innovation and improve economic resilience.
In March 2023, Nigeria drafted a National AI Policy jointly authored by the National Information Technology Development Agency and industry experts to further strengthen its commitment to AI. The country has also launched initiatives such as the 3 Million Tech Talent (3MTT) program and the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme (NAIRS) to educate young people about AI and support AI startups and researchers.
The upcoming discussions between the United States and Nigeria provide an opportunity for the two countries to share knowledge, expertise, and best practices in the digital economy, emerging technologies, and AI advancements. By aligning AI governance and ensuring safe, transparent and trustworthy AI deployment, the partnership aims to foster economic growth and innovation in both countries.
Image source: Shutterstock
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