In an era defined by rapid technological advancement, Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and its subsidiary, the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), are pioneering efforts to harness Artificial Intelligence (AI) for national development. By leveraging emerging technologies and fostering collaboration, NITDA and NCAIR are setting new benchmarks for digital transformation in Nigeria.
At the heart of this transformation lies a groundbreaking project: the integration of over 320 digital solutions into a unified API framework. This initiative, developed collaboratively by NITDA and NCAIR, addresses long-standing inefficiencies in government service delivery by consolidating previously fragmented systems into a seamless, centralized network.
“Through this collaboration, we have demonstrated how AI can redefine governance by solving real problems,” explains Dr. Victor Odumuyiwa, Director of NCAIR. “This initiative ensures not just efficiency but scalability, paving the way for sustainable innovation in public services.”
This API framework has enhanced communication between government agencies, improved accessibility for citizens, and streamlined critical operations. By integrating advanced AI solutions, the project has reduced redundancies and introduced data-driven decision-making processes, laying the foundation for a digitally empowered society.
NCAIR, established in November 2020, is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to research and development in AI, robotics, and other emerging technologies. Its mission aligns closely with Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS), focusing on innovation-driven entrepreneurship, job creation, and digital inclusion.
As part of its mandate, NCAIR has fostered capacity building through training programs that equip professionals with skills to navigate the evolving AI landscape. This effort complements NITDA’s strategic goal of achieving 70% digital literacy by 2027.
The success of these initiatives can be attributed to a team of forward-thinking experts. Ayomiposi Sodeinde, a seasoned product management professional with extensive experience in digital transformation, played a pivotal role in executing the API integration. His expertise, combined with the technical leadership of Dr. Odumuyiwa and a multidisciplinary team, ensured that the project met global standards while addressing local challenges.
“Our focus has always been on empowering people,” Sodeinde shares. “By integrating practical, AI-driven solutions, we’re creating systems that work for everyone—citizens, businesses, and policymakers alike.”
Beyond this initiative, NITDA and NCAIR are actively nurturing Nigeria’s next generation of tech talent. The Reality House competition, for instance, engages students in AI, coding, and robotics through an intensive, reality-TV-style contest. This program, in partnership with the Federal Capital Territory Universal Basic Education Board (FCT UBEB), exemplifies how NITDA and NCAIR are fostering interest in emerging technologies among young Nigerians.
“By equipping students with skills like AI and coding, we are building a workforce capable of solving future challenges,” notes Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, NITDA Director-General.
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NITDA and NCAIR’s efforts extend beyond immediate projects. With plans to establish research centers across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and introduce the Strategic Roadmap Action Plan (SRAP) 2.0, these organizations are creating an ecosystem for sustained innovation.
“Our vision is holistic,” Dr. Odumuyiwa explains. “We’re not just addressing current needs; we’re building systems and talent pipelines that will drive Nigeria’s digital economy for decades to come.”
Through their collaborative work, NITDA and NCAIR are proving that AI can be a powerful force for national development. Their initiatives are inspiring a culture of innovation, empowering professionals, and bridging the gap between technology and public service.
As Nigeria continues to embrace digital transformation, these efforts are a testament to what can be achieved when collaboration, vision, and technology come together.
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