Nigeria’s aspirations to become a leading player in artificial intelligence (AI) could be undermined unless the country strengthens its telecommunications infrastructure, according to the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON).
Speaking at the West Africa Telecoms Infrastructure Summit and Exhibition (WATISE) 4.0 in Lagos, ALTON Chairman, Gbenga Adebayo, stressed that AI development is fundamentally tied to the availability of robust fibre networks, reliable power supply, sufficient data capacity, and resilient communications infrastructure.
Adebayo explained that emerging technologies such as AI, cloud computing, fintech, machine learning, and digital commerce generate enormous volumes of data that require high-speed connectivity, low latency, and dependable networks to function effectively. He noted that discussions about AI must go beyond software and algorithms to address the infrastructure that enables data movement and processing.
While Nigeria is actively promoting AI adoption across sectors including healthcare, education, agriculture, financial services, and public administration, Adebayo warned that these ambitions may remain unrealised without sustained investment in digital infrastructure. Analysts also point to inadequate fibre networks, unreliable electricity, and limited broadband coverage as major barriers to AI-driven growth in developing economies.
Beyond infrastructure, the ALTON chairman highlighted cybersecurity and public trust as critical factors for AI adoption. He warned that cyberattacks, data breaches, and weak governance frameworks could discourage innovation and reduce confidence in digital services. According to him, transparency, accountability, privacy protection, and strong cybersecurity measures must accompany AI expansion.
Adebayo also renewed calls for better protection of telecom infrastructure, citing frequent fibre cuts, vandalism, theft of equipment, and disruptions caused by construction activities. He identified rising energy costs, foreign exchange volatility, and multiple taxation as additional challenges affecting telecom operators.
Looking ahead, he urged West African countries to deepen regional cooperation through harmonised regulations and investment-friendly policies. He argued that Africa’s growing internet penetration and youthful population position the continent to benefit significantly from the AI economy—provided governments and industry stakeholders invest in resilient digital infrastructure.
The key message from the summit was clear: Nigeria’s race for AI leadership will be determined not only by access to advanced technologies, but by its ability to build and sustain the telecommunications networks that power them.
Nigeria’s AI Ambitions Depend On Strong Telecom Infrastructure, ALTON Warns
