Nigeria is seeking to position itself as a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) governance with the development of a National AI Trust, an initiative designed to shape the country’s approach to AI adoption, regulation and investment.
- +Nigeria seeks global role in AI governance with National AI Trust initiative
The initiative was unveiled by Bosun Tijani, minister of communications, innovation and digital economy, during a two-day convening at Warwick Business School (WBS) in London, where policymakers, AI experts, academics, business leaders and civil society representatives gathered to discuss the framework and objectives of the proposed Trust.
The initiative was unveiled by Bosun Tijani, minister of communications, innovation and digital economy, during a two-day convening at Warwick Business School (WBS) in London, where policymakers, AI experts, academics, business leaders and civil society representatives gathered to discuss the framework and objectives of the proposed Trust.
According to Tijani, the National AI Trust is expected to provide a governance structure that will enable Nigeria to harness the opportunities presented by AI while addressing concerns around accountability, inclusion and long-term sustainability.
“We aim to become a standard bearer for the world. AI is becoming the operating system for global competition and business evolution. The Trust will ensure Nigeria is part of that transformation,” he said.
The move comes as governments around the world race to establish regulatory frameworks for AI amid growing concerns over the technology’s impact on jobs, privacy, security and economic competitiveness.
Tijani said the initiative complements the federal government’s broader digital transformation agenda, including Project BRIDGE, a $2 billion programme aimed at deploying 90,000 kilometres of fibre-optic infrastructure across the country to expand broadband access and support digital innovation.
While infrastructure development remains a priority, he noted that effective governance would be critical to ensuring that AI delivers broad-based economic and social benefits.
“The competitiveness of any society starts with governance. If the Trust can demonstrate impact, it will outlive any single administration. Representation in AI is crucial for Africa—we need voices beyond the US and the West shaping these systems,” he added.
Andy Lockett, dean of Warwick Business School and professor of strategy and entrepreneurship, said AI governance had become a global priority as countries seek to maximise the benefits of the technology while managing associated risks.
“It is vital not just for Africa, but for nations worldwide. At Warwick Business School, influencing policy and practice has been central to our mission since our founding,” Lockett said.
The convening was organised in partnership with Co-creation Hub (CcHUB) and the MacArthur Foundation, reflecting a growing effort to bring together government, industry and civil society stakeholders in shaping AI policy.
He said the National AI Trust would help strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global digital economy by providing the institutional framework needed to support innovation, attract investment and encourage responsible AI deployment.
According to him, “the proposed Trust is expected to play a central role in defining governance standards and ensuring that Nigeria remains competitive in an increasingly technology-driven global economy.
