Artificial Intelligence is one of such technologies that will allow for the development of essential aspects of an economy such as good health and well-being, quality education, security, creation of jobs and innovation.
This was revealed by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Ali Pantami at the Virtual Webinar on Artificial Intelligence on Thursday, 10th November 2020.
Pantami further said that it was in line with this, the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) was developed and launched by the Ministry in November, through the National Information Technology and Development Agency (NITDA), as a pilot to other emerging technology programmes.
“This is in a bid to promote the use of emerging technologies as a tool for addressing national challenges and also to position Nigeria for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).
“The Centre will serve as a refinery of innovative ideas where youths will be mentored to develop technological solutions in efforts to position the country to exploit the over $190 trillion global revenue generated in the emerging technology economy.
“In addition, a digital innovation laboratory, Maker Space and Fabrication laboratory, Printed Circuit Board Facilities, 3-D Printer, Co-working space for ICT start-ups and training facilities, the NCAIR will house the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Regional Entrepreneurship Acceleration Programme (MIT-REAP) office to translate research insights into practical frameworks.
He reiterated that the innovative use of AI is rapidly changing lives for the better and creating new types of jobs and discussions on it must continue as it pertains to these developments across countries to allow for knowledge sharing which is imperative to managing the limitations and risks associated with the use of these technologies.
“Most importantly, this will inform collaborations and investments which are usually beneficially to all parties involved, Pantami said.
