AKINWALE ABOLUWADE
The Federal Government says Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play a central role in achieving Nigeria’s $1 trillion economy target by 2030.
Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, disclosed this after being named among TIME magazine’s 2025 list of the 100 most influential personalities in AI.
Other honourees include Tesla CEO, Elon Musk, and OpenAI chief, Sam Altman, recognised for shaping the global technology landscape.
Tijani described AI as a key pillar of President Bola Tinubu’s vision to transform Nigeria’s economy, highlighting recent progress in national policy, research, and international partnerships.
“Proud to be included on TIME’s list of the #TIME100AI of 2025, a recognition that underscores Nigeria’s growing role in shaping the global future of Artificial Intelligence,” Tijani said.
He noted that Nigeria’s National AI Strategy (NAIS) was co-created with over 120 Nigerian experts worldwide, setting a roadmap for responsible AI development.
He also cited demonstration projects in healthcare, agriculture, education, and financial inclusion, as well as support for local innovators to scale mature AI solutions.
According to him, the recently launched AI Collective — a community of Nigerian AI researchers and practitioners — will drive long-term sustainability in the sector.
“This recognition from TIME validates our belief that Nigeria can stand as a global leader in the responsible and inclusive deployment of AI for productivity and growth. My commitment remains to ensure AI not only drives innovation but also contributes to building a $1 trillion economy as envisioned by President Tinubu,” he added.
The framework for the $1 trillion economy ambition was endorsed last week by the National Economic Council, signaling government’s intent to pursue bold economic transformation over the next five years.
