Nigerian Government should unify data for AI innovation.

Call for Data Consolidation in Nigeria for AI Development

Hajiya Rakiya Shuaibu, an accomplished IT Management Consultant and former Director of ICT at the Central Bank of Nigeria, has emphasized the critical need for the Nigerian government to consolidate and effectively harness data for artificial intelligence (AI) innovation. She asserted that without sufficient data, there is nothing available to train AI models.

During the July edition of the Nairametrics webinar titled “How to Make Money Using AI: Value Creation for Businesses, Entrepreneurs, and Government,” Shuaibu expressed her concern about the fragmented state of data across various institutions, including the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). This disorganization compromises the integration and effective utilization of data for AI projects.

Challenges in Data Management

Shuaibu pointed out the absence of government initiatives aimed at addressing these significant data challenges. She highlighted the necessity for proper data management processes encompassing collection, extraction, transformation, and cleaning. This meticulous approach ensures that the data utilized for AI model development is both reliable and usable.

“Data exists, but it is in silos—CBN, NBS, NCC, NIMC. Some of it is still on paper, although there are efforts to digitize it. The government needs to harness and consolidate this data,” Shuaibu explained, adding that only through such efforts can the nation reap the full benefits of artificial intelligence.

Strategic Steps for AI Policy Development

Shuaibu further underscored the importance of establishing comprehensive AI policies and regulations, complete with clear guidelines and frameworks for the development and application of AI technologies in Nigeria. Drawing inspiration from successful international strategies, she advocated for investments in AI education, training, and infrastructure improvements.

The former director also stressed the necessity of fostering public-private partnerships to stimulate AI innovation in the country, as well as the implementation of financial incentives such as grants and tax breaks to encourage participation from businesses.

Progress in AI Initiatives in Nigeria

Despite the challenges, Shuaibu acknowledged the progress Nigeria has made in its journey toward AI innovation, citing milestones such as the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy released in 2020, as well as the Nigerian National Artificial Intelligence Policy. Recent initiatives, including the national AI strategy workshop and the establishment of a center for artificial intelligence and robotics by NITDA, reflect a clear commitment to advancing the country’s AI capabilities.

In addition, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission plays an essential role in ensuring that data remains secure and comprehensive, which is vital for utilizing the full potential of AI technologies.

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