The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to an inclusive, innovation-driven AI ecosystem at the launch of the ECOWAS Small Business Coalition (ESBC)-INNOPOWER Free MSMEs AI Master Trainer Programme in Abuja.
Speaking through the Director of Digital Development Services, Mr. Oladejo Olawunmi, the Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, described AI as a transformative force reshaping economies and industries. He said the programme will equip MSMEs with skills to thrive in an AI-driven economy.
Inuwa noted that AI is already a present reality and presents Nigeria with the opportunity to become a producer of solutions, not just a consumer. He said NITDA is implementing the National AI Strategy to strengthen infrastructure, build a strong innovation ecosystem, accelerate adoption, promote responsible AI, and ensure effective governance.
He added that Nigeria is investing in digital infrastructure, local AI capacity, and human capital, with key initiatives including the National Centre for AI and Robotics (NCAIR), Nigeria AI Collective, N-ATLAS multilingual model, Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL), and the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme.
He stressed that MSMEs, as the backbone of the economy, stand to gain from AI through improved productivity, automation, and expanded opportunities. According to him, Africa’s success in AI will depend on people, institutions, and partnerships, not just technology.
Inuwa also called for stronger digital infrastructure, support for indigenous languages in AI systems, and expanded digital literacy. He urged Africa to focus on building AI solutions rather than merely consuming them, reaffirming NITDA’s commitment to a resilient and inclusive AI ecosystem.
He concluded that nations that succeed in technological revolutions are those that invest in people and innovation ecosystems.
The Regional President of ESBC, Dr. Abdulrashid Yerima, described the programme as a strategic investment in Africa’s human capital. He said it will equip trainers with practical AI skills to strengthen MSMEs, create jobs, and drive sustainable growth, while calling for stronger multi-sector collaboration to build an AI-driven and globally competitive African economy.
