The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has been actively empowering Nigerians to utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technology solutions. This is largely due to the efforts of its Director General, Dr. Kashifu Abdullahi Inuwa.
Recently, NITDA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Cisco International, a global technology company, to develop skills and provide national training programs to meet future demands. This collaboration aligns with Nigeria’s goal of increasing digital literacy by 2030 and diversifying its economy through technological innovation.
One key aspect of this partnership is the upgrade of the National Artificial Intelligence Centre to a world-class AI lab. This will not only enhance the country’s technological capabilities but also improve productivity in critical sectors such as agriculture, education, health, and social services.
In line with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to boost food security, the collaboration aims to introduce smart agriculture technology to address socio-economic challenges. This will involve using technological solutions such as IoT and drones to improve the irrigation of over 500,000 farmlands, creating job opportunities and empowering local communities.
Dr. Inuwa has also emphasized the importance of cybersecurity in securing AI systems to ensure the safety and integrity of data as more processes become digitized.
Moreover, NITDA, under the leadership of Dr. Inuwa, is actively working towards achieving a national broadband plan that will provide 95% coverage in Nigeria. This will help bridge the digital divide and provide equal access to information and opportunities for all citizens.
Cisco’s Country Director, Clayton Naidoo, highlighted the benefits of this partnership for Nigerians, stating that it will improve agricultural production, create job opportunities, and empower citizens financially through the digital services sector.
The MoU also includes plans to create inclusive modules to empower local communities and provide job opportunities in the digital services sector and related fields. This will not only boost the country’s economy but also bridge the skills gap and promote technological development at the grassroots level.
Through this partnership, Nigerians will have the opportunity to harness the potential of AI and technology to drive business growth, create more job opportunities, and improve their overall standard of living.
