The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has called on Nigerian youths to take advantage of the growing opportunities in artificial intelligence (AI) by developing homegrown solutions capable of addressing the country’s unique challenges. The agency appealed an Artificial Intelligence Hackathon organised in collaboration with VibeCode Africa in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi stressed the need for young Nigerians to transition from being consumers of foreign technologies to creators of innovative digital products. He noted that Nigeria’s large youth population presents a strong foundation for technological advancement and economic growth through innovation.
According to NITDA, the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence across the world has created opportunities for countries that invest in local talent and digital capacity. The agency believes Nigeria has the potential to become a leading technology hub in Africa if young innovators are given the right support, training, and resources.
Addressing participants at the hackathon, the NITDA chief encouraged youths to focus on building solutions that directly solve local problems in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, financial services, and governance. He explained that many of Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges require practical and technology-driven responses that are tailored to local realities.
“The future of AI in Nigeria will not be imported. It will be built by Nigerians who understand our problems and can create solutions that work for our environment,” he stated.
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The agency also emphasised the importance of innovation in driving Nigeria’s digital economy agenda. NITDA explained that while digital literacy remains important, there is now a greater need for technical capability, creativity, and problem-solving skills among young Nigerians.
During the hackathon, participants were encouraged to design AI-powered tools that could improve public service delivery, tackle misinformation, enhance productivity, and promote financial inclusion. Organisers noted that the programme was designed to expose participants to practical AI development while also encouraging collaboration among innovators.
Founder of VibeCode Africa, Lola Adey, said the initiative was aimed at helping young people develop solutions that can make meaningful impacts within their communities. She urged participants to think beyond theoretical concepts and focus on technologies that can address issues affecting everyday life in Nigeria.
Experts at the event also highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence in shaping global economies and industries. They noted that countries investing heavily in AI research and development are likely to gain economic advantages in the future. According to them, Nigeria must position itself strategically by empowering local developers and supporting indigenous innovation.
NITDA further stressed the need for responsible AI development, warning innovators against building systems that compromise privacy, fairness, or ethical standards. The agency stated that trust and accountability would remain essential as AI adoption continues to expand globally.
Industry analysts believe that encouraging locally developed AI solutions could help reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported technologies while creating employment opportunities for young people. They also argue that indigenous solutions are more likely to reflect Nigeria’s cultural, linguistic, and infrastructural realities.
In recent years, NITDA has introduced several initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s digital ecosystem, including programmes focused on digital literacy, technical skills development, startup support, and artificial intelligence research. The agency believes such initiatives will help prepare Nigerian youths for the future of work and position the country as a competitive player in the global technology industry.
As interest in artificial intelligence continues to grow worldwide, NITDA’s message highlights the Federal Government’s broader commitment to digital transformation and innovation-driven development. The agency maintains that with adequate support and collaboration, Nigerian youths can develop world-class AI solutions capable of transforming industries and contributing significantly to national development.
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