Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has emphasized the pivotal role of blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI) in positioning Africa as a global technology powerhouse. Delivering a keynote address titled “Blockchain Technology & AI: Positioning Africa for the Future” at the Africa Tech Alliance Forum (AfriTECH 4.0) in Lagos, Abdullahi underscored the continent’s unique advantage to harness these technologies for economic growth and social transformation. Represented by Mrs. Rita Shoremi, Head of Startup Innovations and IT Solutions, NITDA, South West Zone, he described Africa’s rapidly growing youth population and high mobile penetration rate—currently at 80%—as fertile grounds for digital transformation.
Abdullahi described blockchain and AI as transformative technologies capable of addressing Africa’s unique challenges while unlocking significant economic opportunities. He highlighted blockchain’s potential to foster transparency, enhance financial inclusion, and streamline governance. With over 57% of Africans unbanked, blockchain offers a pathway to extend financial services to underserved regions, potentially adding $300 billion to Africa’s GDP by 2025. Additionally, blockchain’s applications in combating corruption and securing property rights through transparent digital records were underscored as key enablers of progress.
On AI, Abdullahi described it as a cornerstone of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, with projections to contribute over $15 trillion to the global economy by 2030. He highlighted AI’s transformative potential in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and education. AI solutions are driving innovation, from optimizing agricultural resources to improving healthcare diagnostics and addressing Africa’s teacher shortages through personalized education platforms.
To capitalize on these opportunities, Abdullahi called for supportive policies, robust strategic partnerships, and youth empowerment. He outlined NITDA’s eight-pillar strategy, which aligns with Nigeria’s goals for digital literacy, infrastructure access, and global research collaboration. With an ambitious target of achieving 70% digital literacy by 2027, the agency is spearheading initiatives like the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics to foster innovation and build capacity among young Nigerians.
Abdullahi stressed the need for stakeholders to act decisively, declaring, “Africa’s potential in the digital age is boundless. By embracing blockchain and AI, we can create a future where technology bridges economic divides and drives sustainable development.” Concluding his address, Abdullahi expressed optimism about a future where collaborative efforts between governments and AI research communities propel Africa to the forefront of the global digital revolution. “We are not spectators in the digital revolution; we are pioneers. Now is the time to seize this moment and position Africa as a leader in global innovation,” he affirmed.
