AI's Role in Solving Nigeria's Power Deficit Discussed

At the 5th National Conference on Women in Technical Education held at Kaduna Polytechnic, experts discussed the critical role of artificial intelligence (AI) in tackling Nigeria's persistent energy challenges, particularly in expanding access to renewable power and improving sector efficiency. Dr.

Suleiman Umar, the rector of Kaduna Polytechnic, highlighted how integrating AI into renewable energy systems could transform operations and create new pathways for economic growth. Dr.

Abubakar Jada, the dean of the School of Technical and Vocational Education, noted that AI-driven systems could reduce operational costs and improve energy output efficiency. Keynote speaker Dr.

Abel E. Airoboman from the Nigerian Defence Academy pointed out that nearly half of Nigeria's population lacks access to electricity and stressed the slow adoption of renewable energy solutions due to high capital costs.

He called for government subsidies for renewable energy technology and emphasized AI's role in predicting energy demand and optimizing grid performance. Chioma Wogu Ogbonna, chairperson of the occasion, noted that 600 million people in Africa lack access to electricity, urging research to provide practical solutions to energy poverty.