Vice President Kashim Shettima has stated that Nigeria possesses the readiness to pioneer Africa's advancement in Artificial Intelligence (AI), thereby unlocking new avenues for economic prosperity.
Speaking at the inauguration of the AI University Innovation Pod (UniPod) at the University of Lagos, Shettima highlighted that Nigeria cannot afford to remain a passive observer in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
Represented at the event by Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, the Vice President articulated that AI represents a significant transformative technology with the potential to enhance human capabilities and drive progress across vital sectors like agriculture, healthcare, education, and finance.
He underscored the critical importance of establishing robust digital infrastructure within the country. This infrastructure, he noted, would empower innovators, businesses, and government bodies to develop solutions specifically addressing local challenges.
The Vice President affirmed that the nation's overarching objective is to shift from merely consuming technologies developed elsewhere to actively producing knowledge, fostering innovation, and creating scalable solutions.
"Our commitment to investing in digital public infrastructure and nurturing innovation ecosystems is driven by a clear ambition: to position Nigeria as a frontrunner in AI-driven development," Shettima remarked.
He further observed that initiatives such as the UniPod signify a larger transformation in the role of universities, positioning them as hubs for innovation, entrepreneurship, and national progress.
Shettima extended commendation to collaborating partners, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), and the Lagos State Government, for their support of the UniPod initiative.
Elsie Attafuah, the UNDP Resident Representative, stated that the UniPod is designed to connect talent with opportunities, thereby enhancing Nigeria's long-term competitiveness and promoting inclusive economic growth.
She added that this initiative will ensure that young Nigerians are not only equipped for the future but are also instrumental in shaping it.
By Deji Elumoye
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