Embracing AI as a Strategic Partner for Innovation
The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has urged Nigerian business leaders to see Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a strategic partner for innovation and productivity. Rather than perceiving it as a threat to human employment, he emphasized that AI should be viewed as a 'thought partner' capable of generating new ideas and enhancing competitiveness in an evolving global economy.
Inuwa made these remarks during a panel discussion titled 'Builders of the New Nigeria - Stories of Scale, Grit, and Innovation' at the BusinessDay CEO Forum Nigeria in Lagos. He challenged the traditional view of AI, encouraging CEOs to explore its potential in driving business models and unlocking new opportunities.
He explained that while AI can outperform humans in certain tasks, it is not designed to replace people. Instead, AI will displace specific skills and processes currently used in various industries. Inuwa suggested that business leaders should integrate AI into their operations by assigning it clear roles such as virtual assistants, legal advisors, or business analysts. This approach would allow for more effective and purposeful use of the technology.
However, he also warned that AI must be used with caution. Inuwa highlighted that business leaders should not assume AI is always accurate or ethical. He stressed the importance of strong regulatory oversight, explaining that NITDA's strategy involves working closely with the private sector to test and co-create solutions through 'policy labs' before implementing any frameworks or regulations.
This forward-thinking approach allows NITDA to develop evidence-based policies that support innovation while ensuring public safety. By fostering experimentation with emerging technologies in safe, controlled environments, the agency gains valuable insights that inform future regulatory strategies. This method avoids imposing blanket restrictions based on fear and instead encourages a balanced approach to technological advancement.
The BusinessDay CEO Forum brought together influential business executives, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and thought leaders to discuss strategies for resilience, growth, and innovation in Nigeria’s economic landscape. Panelists shared personal stories of perseverance and examined how digital technologies like AI, mobile payments, and data analytics are transforming the business environment in the country.
Key Takeaways from the Discussion
- AI as a Thought Partner: Business leaders should see AI as a tool for generating ideas and enhancing decision-making rather than replacing human input.
- Collaboration with AI: Assigning AI clear roles within organizations can lead to more efficient and effective outcomes.
- Need for Vigilance: While AI offers great potential, it is essential to remain cautious about its accuracy and ethical implications.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Collaboration between government agencies and the private sector is crucial for developing policies that support innovation without compromising safety.
- Safe Experimentation: Encouraging controlled testing of emerging technologies helps gather insights that shape future regulations.
The forum underscored the growing role of digital technologies in shaping Nigeria’s economic future. As businesses navigate this changing landscape, embracing AI and other innovations will be key to staying competitive and driving sustainable growth.