FUTUREMAP WORKSHOP: KASHIFU ADVOCATES FOR INTRODUCTION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, TECHNOLOGY TO DRIVE ECONOMIC PROSPERITY

Policymakers in the information technology sector in Nigeria have been called upon to leverage the unique strengths of their states to drive economic prosperity, using artificial intelligence.

Making this call is the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa during a capacity building Workshop held at FutureMap Academy, in Hadejia, Jigawa State.

The theme of the workshop, focused on “AI for Office Productivity, Design Thinking, Agriculture, Health, Education, Energy, and Climate Change.”

Kashifu, while addressing the participants comprising of academics, professionals, startup founders, students, government officials, and representatives from non-governmental organizations, emphasized on the need for state policymakers to identify and harness their resources effectively.

Citing the large pool of computer science graduates in Jigawa state as a significant asset, the Director General of NITDA pointed out that these group of graduates could be empowered to contribute to the state’s development if equipped with the right skills and opportunities.

Inuwa shared personal anecdotes about his journey into computer science and digital transformation, emphasizing how local mentors can inspire the next generation to explore careers in technology.

Stressing on the need for policies that build remote work competencies among young people, he further shared the success stories of young Nigerians who transitioned from being workers in organisations to a high-paying remote role with foreign companies. 

In his advocacy for the integration of technology into various sectors, including agriculture, to create diverse employment opportunities, the NITDA DG encouraged  the participants to rethink service delivery, even as he stressed the need for technology-driven solutions to improve citizens’ lives by utilizing resources efficiently to improve productivity and enable remote work opportunities for citizens.

Highlighting digital transformation’s impact on productivity, integrating people, processes, and technology, Inuwa cited Uber and Airbnb as examples of disruption through innovation.

He also showcased AI’s practical applications and suggested government services, such as land and birth certificate registration, could benefit from digital transformation, reducing bureaucratic stress for citizens.

He highlighted the transformative role o technology and self-learning in boosting productivity and also, disclosed how artificial intelligence (AI) is being used at NITDA to enhance operational efficiency by streamlining processes and managing complex tasks.

While emphasizing the importance of adopting a strategic mindset and integrating technology into everyday workflows, he urged participants to start with small changes in their own offices and inspire others to adopt strategic approaches to problem-solving.

According to the NITDA DG, "effective service delivery starts with individual commitment and grows into collective action." 

In a goodwill message at the event, Huawei reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

Dr. Nihinlola Mary Fafore, Huawei Representative, who joined virtually emphasized the company’s vision to empower individuals and communities with digital skills.

According to Fafore, "in partnership with stakeholders, Huawei aims to bridge the digital divide, foster innovation and entrepreneurship, and enhance employability among young Nigerians."

She said the initiative is part of Huawei’s efforts to develop a robust tech ecosystem in Nigeria, ensuring that no region is left behind in the journey towards technological advancement.

In his remarks at the occasion, the Technical Adviser to the Governor of Jigawa State on ICT and Digital Economy, Dr. Rislan Abdulazeez Kanya, highlighted the untapped potential of local human capital and the importance of strategic policies in fostering growth and innovation.

Kanya therefore underscores the commitment of the state government, NITDA and other stakeholders in fostering innovation and empowering local communities through technology, positioning Jigawa as a potential hub for tech-driven development.

Other guests at the workshop stressed the importance of continuous learning and self-improvement in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

They also called for a collaborative effort to create a technologically advanced and efficient work environment in Jigawa.

The workshop was organized by Future Map Foundation in collaborating with NITDA, Jigawa State, Huawei, Cosmopolitan University, and Open School Initiative.

According to available reports, the FutureMap Foundation was established to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, productive employment, and decent work for all and to strengthen the means of implementation and revitalise the global partnership for sustainable development through Digital Job Creation, Skills Acquisition and Creative Technology Programme.

The foundation also owns a physical training facility, FutureMap Academy in Hadejia, Jigawa State, and collaborating with strategic partners for training programmes across the countries.

The academy provides tech education to young people in collaboration with relative public and private organizations to offer a range of programs in deep tech.