Vice President Kashim Shettima has declared that Nigeria is ready to lead Africa in harnessing Artificial Intelligence to unlock new pathways for economic prosperity.
Speaking at the launch of the AI University Innovation Pod (UniPod) at University of Lagos in Lagos, Shettima emphasised that Nigeria must not remain passive in the evolving AI era.
Represented by Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, the Vice President said AI has become a transformative technology capable of expanding human potential and driving innovation across sectors such as agriculture, health, education, and finance.
He stressed the need for Nigeria to build strong digital foundations that enable innovators, businesses, and government institutions to develop solutions tailored to local challenges.
According to him, the country’s goal is to transition from being a consumer of imported technologies to a producer of knowledge, innovation, and scalable solutions.
“Our investments in digital public infrastructure and innovation ecosystems point to a singular goal—to make Nigeria a leader in AI-driven development,” he said.
Shettima noted that initiatives like the UniPod reflect a broader shift in the role of universities as centres for innovation, enterprise, and national development.
He commended partners including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), and the Lagos State Government for supporting the initiative.
UNDP Resident Representative Elsie Attafuah said the UniPod would connect talent to opportunity and position Nigeria for long-term competitiveness and inclusive growth.
She added that the initiative ensures young Nigerians are not only prepared for the future but actively shaping it.
By Deji Elumoye
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