Stakeholders in Nigeria’s technology and development space have renewed calls for a more inclusive, safe and ethically guided approach to artificial intelligence development across the country. This followed a high-level dialogue convened by the MacArthur Foundation in partnership with Dataphyte Foundation and the University of Lagos, aimed at strengthening collaboration on the future of AI in Nigeria.
The one-day meeting brought together policymakers, academics, civil society groups, media professionals and technology experts to examine both the opportunities and risks associated with rapid AI growth. Participants noted that while Nigeria is beginning to gain traction through local-language AI tools and emerging policy efforts, major gaps remain in governance, data protection, research capacity and coordination among key institutions.
Speaking at the event, Africa Director of the MacArthur Foundation, Kole Shettima, stressed the need to ensure Nigeria plays a central role in global AI conversations, adding that innovation must reflect the realities of diverse communities across the country.
Representatives from organisations such as Co-Creation Hub and the Policy Innovation Centre called for stronger investment in underserved communities, improved coordination mechanisms and frameworks that can build public trust in emerging technologies. Experts also highlighted the importance of developing AI safety systems tailored to local risks and conditions.
The University of Lagos was identified as a key academic hub capable of driving research, innovation and talent development in the sector. Participants further emphasized the need to invest in local-language technologies and indigenous digital infrastructure to support Nigeria’s long-term AI sovereignty.
At the end of the dialogue, stakeholders agreed to deepen collaboration through research, policy engagement and innovation platforms designed to ensure that the benefits of artificial intelligence are widely shared across all regions and communities in Nigeria.
