…Says Danbatta
Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta has expressed the commission’s commitment to the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI), stressing that AI would play a crucial role in shaping Africa’s digital future.
Danbatta, in his keynote address at the ongoing 11th edition of the Digital Conference and Exhibition (DACE) themed: “Artificial Intelligence and Africa” in Abuja on Wednesday, said the commission is working to create an enabling regulatory framework that promotes innovation while safeguarding the interest of citizens.
Danbatta who was represented by the Head, Consumer Information and Education, Dr. Emilia Nwokolo, emphasised that AI has the capacity to drive economic growth and improve the well-being of Nigerians.
“Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as one of the most transformative technologies of our time. Its potential to revolutionize industries, enhance productivity, and improve the quality of life for citizens cannot be overstated.
“I believe that AI will play a pivotal role in shaping Africa’s digital future. There are several examples of AI-powered software in use in our daily lives, including voice assistants, face recognition for unlocking mobile phones, fingerprint biometrics, and machine learning-based financial fraud detection.
“In recent years, we have witnessed remarkable advancements in AI across various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, finance, transportation, education, and even governance.
“AI-powered solutions have the potential to address some of Africa’s most pressing challenges, such as limited access to healthcare, food security, financial inclusion, and infrastructure development.
”We are working to create an enabling regulatory framework that promotes innovation while safeguarding the interests of consumers and citizens. We are also collaborating with stakeholders to establish AI research and development centres, incubation hubs, and startup ecosystems to nurture homegrown AI talent,” Danbatta noted.