NITDA DG: AI Is collaborative partner, not threat to jobs - ITREALMS

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The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has urged business leaders to view artificial intelligence (AI) as a partner in driving innovation and economic growth, rather than a threat to human jobs, reports ITREALMS.

Speaking at the BusinessDay CEO Forum Nigeria in Lagos, Inuwa encouraged CEOs to integrate AI into their operations as a thought partner and strategic ally, rather than a replacement for human input.

Inuwa emphasized the need for business leaders to redefine their roles in an AI-driven world by evolving their capabilities to work effectively alongside intelligent systems.


He advised assigning specific roles or personas to AI systems to make interactions more purposeful and productive.

Expressing optimism about AI's potential, Inuwa cautioned business leaders to approach AI systems with vigilance, warning that AI should not be assumed to be always accurate or ethical by default.

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He pointed out the importance of testing AI technologies in safe, controlled environments to ensure they are safe, ethical, and reliable.

Inuwa highlighted NITDA's progressive regulatory approach, which focuses on collaboration, experimentation, and co-creation. 

Stressing that the agency works with innovators, startups, and the private sector to experiment with emerging technologies like AI, establishing clear, evidence-based benchmarks and policies that support innovation and safeguard public interests.

He submitted that Nigeria is setting a precedent for balancing technological innovation with societal responsibility, enabling businesses to thrive while ensuring that new technologies benefit the broader society.

ITREALMS recalled that BusinessDay CEO Forum Nigeria, provided a platform for high-impact conversations on scaling businesses, building resilience, and driving sustainable innovation in Nigeria's challenging economic climate.

Remmy Nweke/DoP