Shettima Declares Nigeria Ready to Lead Africa’s AI Revolution, Pushes for Innovation-Driven Economy

Vice President urges shift from tech consumption to AI production as UniPod launches at University of Lagos

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By Ade Olugbenga
Lagos, Nigeria — April 8, 2026

Nigeria is positioning itself to take a leading role in Africa’s artificial intelligence (AI) revolution, with Vice President Kashim Shettima declaring that the country is ready to harness emerging technologies to drive economic growth and innovation.

Speaking at the launch of the AI University Innovation Pod (UniPod) at the University of Lagos, Shettima stressed that Nigeria must move beyond being a passive consumer of imported technologies.

Push for AI-Driven Economic Transformation

Represented by Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, the Vice President described artificial intelligence as a transformative force capable of expanding human potential and reshaping key sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, education, and finance.

He emphasised that Nigeria’s long-term strategy is to transition into a knowledge-based economy powered by locally developed innovations and scalable digital solutions.

“Our investments in digital public infrastructure and innovation ecosystems point to a singular goal—to make Nigeria a leader in AI-driven development,” Shettima stated.

From Consumption to Production

The Vice President underscored the urgency of building strong digital foundations that empower innovators, entrepreneurs, and institutions to address local challenges using homegrown technologies.

According to him, the country must shift decisively from dependence on foreign technology to becoming a producer of cutting-edge solutions that can compete globally.

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Universities as Innovation Hubs

Shettima highlighted the significance of the UniPod initiative, noting that it reflects a broader redefinition of universities as centres of enterprise, research, and national development.

The UniPod platform is designed to connect academic talent with industry opportunities, fostering innovation and accelerating the development of AI-driven solutions.

Strategic Partnerships Driving Growth

The initiative is backed by key stakeholders, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), and the Lagos State Government.

UNDP Resident Representative Elsie Attafuah said the UniPod would serve as a bridge between talent and opportunity, positioning Nigeria for long-term competitiveness in the global digital economy.

She added that the initiative aims to ensure that young Nigerians are not merely prepared for the future but are actively shaping it.

Positioning Nigeria in Africa’s Tech Race

The development aligns with broader efforts by the Federal Government to strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy and position the country as a hub for technological innovation in Africa.

Analysts say sustained investment in AI infrastructure, talent development, and policy frameworks will be critical to achieving the government’s ambition of leading the continent’s digital transformation.