NITDA Calls for Africa’s Active Role in Global AI Regulation

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has emphasised the need for Africa to actively participate in global Artificial Intelligence (AI) regulation.

Kashifu Inuwa, the agency’s Director General, represented by Emmanuel Edet, Director of Standards, Guidelines, and Framework at NITDA, highlighted during his keynote at the Nigeria Fintech Week, themed ‘Global AI Regulation: The Role of Africa and the Global South,’ that AI has the capacity to revolutionise sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture, and governance.

“AI is not just another technology; it represents a paradigm shift with the potential to transform all aspects of our lives,” Inuwa remarked.

He cited the International Monetary Fund’s description of AI as a “technological revolution capable of jumpstarting productivity, boosting global growth, and raising incomes worldwide.”

According to PWC’s Global Artificial Intelligence Study: ‘Exploiting the AI Revolution,’ AI could contribute up to $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, surpassing the combined output of China and India.

Inuwa underscored the importance of Africa’s engagement in global AI governance to ensure that the technology benefits all of humanity, not just a privileged few in more advanced nations. While acknowledging the progress made by countries like the United States, China, and the European Union in AI governance, he noted that their approaches reflect specific national priorities. He emphasized that AI’s impact is global, and its regulation must be equally comprehensive. Africa’s involvement is vital to ensure that governance frameworks account for the continent’s unique cultural, economic, and social contexts.

“Africa must push for inclusivity in global AI governance, ensuring that our distinct challenges, such as infrastructure gaps, education systems, and social values, are recognized,” Inuwa added.

Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, reiterated that Nigeria should position itself as part of the global leadership in AI development and regulation.

AI is projected to contribute $2.9 trillion to Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2030, with Nigeria’s AI market expected to reach $434.4 million by 2026.

Also Read: NITDA Director-General Calls for Collaborative Tech Development in Africa 

Oremeyi Akah, Chief Customer Experience Officer at Interswitch, echoed these sentiments during a panel discussion, stating, “It is time for Africa and the global South to assert their place in the conversation, shaping it in alignment with local contexts and realities. Africa is too significant to remain silent.”

She added that Africa must ensure AI regulations deliver relevant solutions and position the continent to lead as the discussion evolves.

Inuwa also addressed concerns like algorithmic bias and fairness in AI decision-making, which affect critical areas such as job placements and credit approvals. These issues, he said, demonstrate why Africa must actively participate in global discussions to address existing inequalities.

In addition, Inuwa highlighted the need for Africa to invest in building local capacity, including nurturing AI talent, supporting research, and promoting homegrown innovations. This will empower the continent to develop AI solutions tailored to its specific needs.

 “For Africa to be a key player in AI regulation, we must prioritize building local capacity. AI should not merely be seen as an imported technology but as a field where we can create solutions that address our own needs,” he said.

He further advocated for collaboration among African nations and the global South, emphasizing the need for strategic alliances to strengthen their collective voice in global AI governance.

“We must form strategic alliances, leveraging organizations like the African Union, to amplify our role in shaping global AI regulations,” he suggested, pointing to the African Union’s AI roadmap as a positive step.

Inuwa concluded by stressing that Africa and the global South must play a crucial role in shaping the future of AI regulation to ensure its responsible and equitable use for the benefit of all humanity.

 “The global AI regulatory framework cannot be complete without Africa’s active involvement,” he affirmed, calling for deep collaboration among governments, the private sector, civil society, and international organizations.