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Digital Economy: MRA Wants Nigeria To Lead Global AI Future

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja

The Media Rights Agenda, MRA, has called on Nigeria to play a leading role in shaping the global future of Artificial Intelligence, AI, as Africa’s largest country and one of the most significant digital economies.

Executive Director of MRA, Mr. Edetaen Ojo stated this during a Stakeholder Engagement Session on the Nigerian National Artificial Intelligence, NNAI, Strategy, organised by Article 19 West Africa, in collaboration with MRA and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit, GIZ, the German Federal Government agency for International Cooperation.

Ojo noted that Nigeria’s AI Strategy must be based on a genuinely inclusive and multistakeholder process, both in its development and implementation, adding that the role should be inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the realities.

He said: “It is of utmost importance that technological progress in Nigeria does not come at the expense of human rights, including freedom of expression, privacy and other fundamental rights.”

The consultation brought together representatives from the Federal Government, civil society organisations, academia, media, technology sector, and other relevant stakeholders to review and discuss the findings of a draft analysis of Nigeria’s AI Strategy, developed by Article 19.

Ojo noted that the influence of AI is increasingly felt in journalism and the media, in governance and public administration, in education, healthcare, in elections and political communication, in security, finance, and many other sectors.

“For us as Nigerians, the question is no longer whether AI will shape our future; it is already shaping our lives. The more important question for us, I believe, is: What kind of AI future do we want, and how do we ensure that Nigeria is adequately prepared for it?” he asked.

He disclosed that the development of a National AI Strategy as a roadmap for Nigeria is crucial, adding that MRA strongly believed that the governance of digital technologies must be grounded in respect for human rights and democratic values.

Ojo enjoined the participants to strive to position Nigeria not simply as a consumer of AI, but as an active participant in shaping its development and governance.

The session provided a platform for participants to share insights, identify gaps and opportunities, and contribute recommendations on the way forward towards an effective and inclusive AI governance framework.

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