Author: Ugochukwu Levi F

As Africa faces rising food insecurity and the challenge of feeding a growing population, the innovative use of artificial intelligence in agriculture is emerging as a potential solution to a longstanding, protracted problem. From smallholder farms to large agribusinesses, AI technologies are helping farmers increase yields, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve supply chain efficiency. “AI allows us to predict crop diseases, optimise irrigation, and make smarter decisions about planting and harvesting,” said Dr Chinedu Okafor, an agricultural AI researcher based in Lagos. “This is a crucial step toward securing our food systems and boosting economic growth,” he emphasised. Startups across…

Two Nigerian teenage sisters have developed an innovative artificial intelligence‑driven solution to help reduce massive food losses suffered by farmers after harvest. Eleven‑year‑old Zainab Nasirudeen Yakubu and her 13‑year‑old sister Asmau Nasirudeen Yakubu are the co‑founders of Guard Grains, an agritech initiative that includes an AI‑powered mat designed to protect harvested crops and improve storage outcomes for farmers. The sisters’ creation combines artificial intelligence with sensors and sound‑repellent technology to detect and deter pests, such as rodents and reptiles, that often damage stored grains, and to monitor moisture levels that can lead to rot and nutrient loss if left unchecked.…

The Safer Media Initiative (SMI) has raised concerns over a widening artificial intelligence (AI) skills gap in Nigerian newsrooms, warning that inadequate training could undermine journalistic standards and credibility. The organisation said recent findings show that while AI adoption among journalists is widespread, formal training remains critically low. According to SMI, about 95 per cent of journalists already use AI tools regularly, yet only around 10 per cent have received structured training on their use. Speaking at a training session in Abuja themed “AI Tools for Journalists: Effective, Responsible and Safe Use,” SMI Executive Director, Peter lorter, described the trend…

Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) has intensified its focus on artificial intelligence (AI) education, equipping students, staff, and alumni with practical knowledge on responsible AI use as the technology expands across sectors. In a one-day intensive training workshop organised in collaboration with the United States Consulate General in Lagos, more than 300 participants were trained on the ethical, practical, and responsible deployment of AI tools. The programme covered key themes, including ethical principles in AI, decision-making frameworks, cyber safety, and data privacy, reflecting YABATECH’s drive to ensure the responsible and beneficial use of AI by future technologists and innovators. Dr…

Egoras Technologies Ltd. and Airtel Nigeria have announced the launch of an artificial intelligence‑enabled smartphone designed to help Nigeria’s millions of micro and small medium enterprises (SMEs) overcome barriers and ensure productivity in digital commerce. The device, called the Cube Phone, is designed to combine business‑oriented features-including free internet access for business activities, a built‑in contactless payment terminal, and a suite of AI business tools-into a single Android handset. It is set for national release on April 28 with distribution through Egoras showrooms across Nigeria. Priced at ₦240,000 (about $150), the Cube Phone targets the country’s estimated 40 million micro…

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the deployment of an artificial intelligence‑powered surveillance network in Jos and across Plateau State as part of an intensified effort to strengthen security after recent deadly attacks on the citizens. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said the initiative will involve the immediate installation of more than 5,000 AI‑enabled digital surveillance cameras to help law enforcement agencies improve intelligence gathering, monitoring, and rapid response to crime. The cameras are to be installed first in Jos, the state capital, before expanding throughout the region. Speaking during a visit to Jos following the March 29 gun attack…

The California-based tech giant, Apple Inc., has stepped up its artificial intelligence efforts as competition in the global tech sector intensifies, signalling a major shift in strategy. In recent weeks, Apple has made several strategic moves to advance its AI capabilities, including hiring senior talent and preparing to overhaul its voice assistant technology to meet evolving industry standards. On March 27, 2026, the company hired former Google executive Lilian Rincon as vice president of product marketing for artificial intelligence. Reporting to marketing chief Greg Joswiak, Rincon will lead efforts to rebuild Siri, Apple’s long-criticised virtual assistant, using advanced AI technologies.…

The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa has urged African governments to urgently increase investment in artificial intelligence and digital technologies, warning that the continent risks being left behind in the global AI‑driven economic transformation. The commission said African nations should strengthen domestic revenue collection, consider borrowing, and use pension and sovereign wealth funds to finance infrastructure for artificial intelligence, data systems, and frontier technologies. “Frontier technologies and innovation are not only useful to unlock Africa’s growth potential and enhance the competitiveness of African economies through productivity growth and diversification,” said Mama Keita, Deputy Executive Secretary for Programme Support at…

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a landmark executive order imposing new regulations on artificial intelligence for companies seeking state contracts. The directive aims to prevent misuse of AI, including illegal content creation, discriminatory outputs, and violations of civil rights. Under the order, state agencies must develop best practices for watermarking AI-generated images and videos to help Californians distinguish real from synthetic content. Companies flagged as supply-chain risks may be reviewed before being allowed to contract with the state. Within 120 days, the Department of Technology and other state bodies are required to issue specific vetting and certification recommendations for…

The court is described as the last hope of the common man, underscoring its overriding importance in upholding justice, ensuring equity, and maintaining fairness in any society. In this critical role, AI seems to take over the process as its usage continues to shape the legal sector. From research assistance to predictive analytics, AI promises greater efficiency and consistency in court processes. Yet, the idea of allowing AI to play a role in judicial decision-making raises important ethical and legal concerns. As courts grapple with increasing caseloads and administrative pressures, AI tools are being considered as potential solutions. But can…