Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged the adoption of artificial intelligence to address Nigeria’s pressing issues, including terrorism, cybercrime, and border security.
He said AI could also improve agriculture, healthcare, and financial inclusion across the country.
Speaking in Abuja on Monday, Shettima met with members of the Executive Intelligence Management Course 17 from the National Institute for Security Studies. He acknowledged Nigeria’s current struggles with security and economic challenges and emphasized the need for innovative solutions.
“Africa and Nigeria are currently navigating some of the most troubling times, especially in the security and economic arenas,” Shettima said. “The challenges we face require innovative solutions, and AI presents a vista of opportunities to address issues in agriculture, healthcare, financial inclusion, and security.”
The vice president praised the success of Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah in combating insecurity, calling it proof of what well-planned strategies can achieve.
Shettima also highlighted Nigeria’s youthful population, describing it as a key asset for technological advancement.
“Africa is the youngest continent, and our tech-savvy youth are essential in bridging the skill gaps needed to tackle these challenges. Where there is a will, there is always a way,” he said.
Pointing to successful Nigerian tech companies like Moniepoint, Flutterwave, and OPay, Shettima said they showed the power of innovation even in the face of infrastructural challenges.
“Despite our infrastructural deficits, these companies demonstrate that with innovation and determination, we can achieve remarkable success,” he added.
Shettima also expressed optimism about using AI to combat emerging threats like terrorism and cybercrime while strengthening border security. He called for optimism and hard work to overcome obstacles and build a prosperous future for Nigeria and Africa.
Commandant Joseph Odama of NISS praised the achievements of Executive Intelligence Management Course 17, which brought together participants from Nigeria and five other African countries.
“The theme of this year’s course, ‘Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Economies in Africa: Challenges and Prospects,’ has fostered rigorous academic discussion, strategic thinking, and innovative problem-solving,” Odama said.
Since its inception, NISS has graduated 961 participants, contributing significantly to national and international security strategies, he added.
