Nigeria Urged to Establish AI Governance Law

During a forum in Abuja, Dr. Umar Yakubu, the Executive Director of the Center for the Promotion of Technology and Innovation (CEPTI), stated that Nigeria requires a robust law rather than just a framework to govern the use of artificial intelligence (AI). He highlighted the rapid integration of AI into various sectors, including banking and healthcare, and the associated risks, particularly concerning data privacy and security.

Dr. Yakubu called for policymakers to prioritize the establishment of laws that protect citizens and their data, emphasizing the need for inter-agency cooperation among sectors like finance and health. Dasuki Arabi, the Director General of the Bureau of Public Service Reform, noted that while Nigeria is gradually adopting digital technologies, including AI, it faces challenges such as ethical considerations and algorithm transparency.

The forum aimed to engage stakeholders in identifying gaps in AI governance and proposing sustainable solutions.