6thWave: AI News Hub

A recent report from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) reveals that developing countries, including Nigeria, are not adequately prepared for the deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology due to insufficient digital infrastructure. The IMF’s ‘AI Preparedness Index’, which evaluates 174 economies based on digital infrastructure, human capital, labour policies, innovation, integration, and regulation, indicates that most developing economies are least prepared for AI adoption. Nigeria, despite launching its AI strategy and first Multilingual Large Language Model in April, remains significantly behind in readiness. Challenges in creating regulations and policies for AI, as pointed out by Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, are compounded by the rapid pace of technological advancement. The IMF report highlights that wealthier economies are generally better equipped for AI adoption and warns that AI could exacerbate global inequalities. To improve AI preparedness, the IMF recommends investments in digital infrastructure and worker training for developing economies, and expansion of social safety nets in advanced economies. Global coordination is also deemed necessary to strengthen regulations against potential AI risks. Despite lacking a formal national AI policy, Nigeria is actively working towards creating one, with initiatives led by the National Information Technology Development Agency and the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. Additionally, a National AI Strategy Workshop was convened by the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy to draft a new National AI Strategy document.

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