The European Union (EU) has indicated its willingness to enhance collaboration with Nigeria in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) research and innovation, paving the way for a new era of strategic partnership aimed at closing the divide between scientific advancements and practical technological applications.
In a statement provided to journalists in Abuja, Massimo De Luca, the Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, disclosed during the University of Lagos (UNILAG) International Week that the EU and Nigeria are progressing towards a Science, Technology, and Innovation Agreement intended to formalize collaborative research and innovation efforts.
He noted that this partnership is structured to empower Nigerian researchers, universities, and businesses to collaboratively develop AI-driven solutions that tackle the nation’s urgent developmental issues while promoting a wider innovation ecosystem across Africa.
“The agreement will create new opportunities for research institutions and innovators to collaborate on significant areas for both our regions, such as the responsible use of AI to tackle societal challenges, enhance productivity, and generate inclusive opportunities,” De Luca remarked.
He also emphasized the Generative AI for Africa call for proposals, which is set to close on 31 October, as one of several EU-funded initiatives aimed at encouraging cross-continental cooperation in AI development.
Also Read: http://Teenager Becomes Nigeria’s Vice President
He stated that the EU is eager to see Nigerian researchers take a leading role in shaping the future of AI in Africa through enhanced networks and innovation clusters. “We aspire to have Nigerian researchers at the forefront of this initiative, building networks, sharing ideas, and spearheading projects that influence the continent’s innovation landscape,” he stressed.
De Luca emphasized the EU’s enduring commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s research capabilities beyond mere financial assistance. He pointed out that the Union’s collaboration with the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the creation of a research contact point in Nigeria reflect a comprehensive initiative to empower local institutions to participate on a global scale and compete effectively within the knowledge economy.
”Our partnership with the National Universities Commission and the establishment of a research contact point in Nigeria are integral components of broader efforts aimed at ensuring that Nigerian institutions have access to the necessary tools and partnerships to succeed internationally,” he remarked.
In her address, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, praised the EU for its ongoing collaboration with Nigerian universities, characterizing the partnership as a paradigm of mutual respect and collective progress.
”Our students and researchers will benefit from exposure to a variety of networks and knowledge systems. This type of collaboration not only fosters innovation but also contributes to the institutional development of our universities,” she stated.
