FG to launch first National AI Centre of Excellence at the University of Jos

The federal government has announced plans to establish the country’s first National Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence. This initiative aims to strengthen local research and position the country as a significant contributor to the global artificial intelligence ecosystem.

Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, announced the project during the 50th convocation ceremony of the University of Jos, where the centre will be established. The federal government, through the ministry, will provide support for this initiative.

According to Tijani, the centre will act as a national hub for advanced research, skills development, innovation, and policy engagement. This marks the first time Nigeria has established a dedicated national institution focused solely on artificial intelligence.

Universities, data, and Nigeria’s place in global AI

In his speech, the minister emphasized that Nigeria’s AI journey should focus on inclusive research and locally relevant data, rather than solely relying on foreign technologies and computing resources.

“Artificial intelligence systems must understand Nigeria’s reality, our languages, our culture, our social structures, and universities must lead the research into inclusive datasets and contextual intelligence,” he said.

He clarified that leading AI countries achieved their status through early academic investment in machine learning research, not just powerful computers. “The reality is much more than just compute. Academic institutions globally have been investing in this space for years,” he added.

Tijani stated that Nigeria’s large size means it must actively take part in developing artificial intelligence. With a population of over 200 million that is expected to grow in the coming decades, he emphasized that the country needs to control how AI systems are designed and managed.

“Nigeria must not be a passive rule taker in global AI governance. Our universities must help position the country as thoughtful contributors and leaders from the Global South,” the minister said.

Also read: “We can use AI to leapfrog traditional development challenges,”- Minister Bosun Tijani at GIAA Conference

Announcing the centre, Tijani described it as the first of its kind in Nigeria, adding that it will directly support the country’s technological and economic ambitions.

The centre is expected to unite researchers, students, policymakers, and innovators to develop solutions that cater to Nigeria’s specific needs. Although details about timelines and funding have not yet been announced, this initiative indicates a significant shift towards locally driven technology development, with universities now positioned at the forefront of Nigeria’s artificial intelligence future.

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