NITDA–Wigwe University Alliance Targets Nigerian-Built AI, Smart Agriculture Innovation
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and Wigwe University are advancing plans for collaboration on artificial intelligence (AI), agricultural innovation and digital talent development. The move follows a high-level meeting in Abuja between senior officials of both institutions.
The discussions were led by Wigwe University Vice-Chancellor, Marwan AlAkaidi, who outlined a shared vision aligned with Nigeria’s national technology goals. Both parties identified overlapping priorities that could accelerate the country’s digital transformation.
Professor AlAkaidi said Wigwe University was founded to become “the university of Africa,” delivering quality teaching and transformative research. Established under the vision of the late Herbert Wigwe, the institution aims to harness Nigeria’s abundant talent through strong partnerships with industry and government.
Drawing on his academic experience in the UK and Middle East, AlAkaidi revealed that the university is already conducting AI-for-Health research in Nigeria with a dedicated team. He expressed determination to establish a full AI centre in the country, despite funding setbacks following Wigwe’s death, stressing the goal of building a distinctly Nigerian AI system rather than relying solely on foreign tools.
He also highlighted opportunities for AI-driven agricultural research, noting the university’s location in Rivers State near farming communities, saying that AI can enhance livestock management, land use, food processing and overall productivity, significantly boosting Nigeria’s agricultural output.
NITDA representative Dr Aristotle welcomed the initiative, describing the agency as Nigeria’s technology powerhouse with mandates spanning IT regulation, innovation and research, saying the proposals align with NITDA’s strategic direction, particularly through initiatives such as the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics and the National Adaptive Village for Smart Agriculture.
NITDA’s Director of Research and Development, Dr Kumo, added that the agency aims to strengthen Nigeria’s research ecosystem and improve global performance rankings.
He noted that Wigwe University’s interests—including AI, robotics, blockchain and IoT—mirror NITDA’s priorities, while also stressing the importance of virtual learning to expand nationwide access to education.
Both institutions underscored the need for industry-aligned curricula and digitally skilled graduates.
Professor AlAkaidi said universities must produce job creators, not just job seekers, pointing to students already developing innovative projects, saying that combining strengths through active partnership could deliver meaningful technological progress for Nigeria and beyond.
