In a move set to redefine the intersection of academia and digital policy, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and Wigwe University have progressed into high-level discussions to form a strategic partnership. The collaboration aims to pioneer localised Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions and drive agricultural innovation nationwide.
The talks, held at the NITDA headquarters in Abuja, signalled a shared vision between the federal government and the private institution to move Nigeria from a consumer of foreign tech to a global producer of indigenous solutions.
Building “The Nigerian AI”
A central theme of the dialogue, led by the Vice-Chancellor of Wigwe University, Professor Marwan Al-Akaidi, is the development of a localised AI engine. Unlike generic global models, this “Nigerian AI” is intended to understand and reflect the nation’s diverse languages, cultural nuances, and unique economic realities.
“We are not just looking to use AI; we want to build it with a Nigerian heart,” Al-Akaidi noted during the session. This aligns with broader efforts to ensure AI in Nigeria remains ethically aligned with local values while remaining globally competitive.
Revolutionising Agriculture with Precision Tech
Beyond software, the partnership eyes the “green” sector. By leveraging NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), the two entities discussed deploying AI for precision agriculture. Key areas of focus include:
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Livestock Management: Using AI-driven sensors to monitor cattle health and productivity.
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Crop Optimisation: Implementing predictive analytics to improve yields in the Niger Delta and beyond.
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Smart Farming Villages: Integrating smart farming techniques to connect rural researchers with real-time data.
The goal is to close the “productivity gap” that currently sees Nigerian dairy and crop yields lagging behind technologically advanced nations.
Bridging the Digital Talent Gap
NITDA’s Director of Research and Development, Dr Aristotle Onumo, emphasised that the agency is keen on academic institutions that act as incubators for “job creators.”
Wigwe University highlighted its progress in digital talent development, showcasing student-led projects spanning from malaria-detection algorithms to educational platforms. The proposed partnership would see NITDA providing the regulatory framework and infrastructure support, such as the National Centre for AI and Robotics (NCAIR), to scale these student innovations.
While a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is still in the works, both parties have agreed on the immediate next steps:
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in government-tech policy, proving that when the state and the ivory tower talk, the future of innovation gets a lot brighter.
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