The Federal Government has launched a National Artificial Intelligence Trust aimed at providing long-term institutional support for the development and governance of artificial intelligence in Nigeria.
The initiative follows the approval of the framework by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and is designed to ensure sustained leadership and coordination in the country’s emerging AI ecosystem.
According to the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, the process of establishing the Trust formally began with a co-creation workshop held in London on Wednesday and Thursday, bringing together global experts across academia, industry, policy, and civil society.
The workshop brought together researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, philanthropic organisations, and public interest groups to contribute to the design of the National AI Trust.
Tijani said the Trust is envisioned as a body of trustees that will guide the development and deployment of artificial intelligence in a way that delivers broad-based economic and social value to Nigerians.
He noted that as artificial intelligence becomes a major driver of global economic competitiveness, countries must focus not only on technology development but also on building strong institutions to govern its use.
According to him, convening the workshop in London allowed Nigeria to tap into global expertise and diverse perspectives to strengthen the design and direction of the initiative.
As part of the engagement, Tijani also delivered a keynote at the Warwick Business School under the theme Global Perspectives: AI, Institutions, and National Competitiveness, where he outlined Nigeria’s approach to building talent, infrastructure, and institutional capacity for an AI-driven economy.
He said the Federal Government remains committed to developing the frameworks needed for Nigeria to compete effectively in the global digital economy.
The minister expressed appreciation to partners including the MacArthur Foundation, CcHUB, and Warwick Business School for supporting the workshop and contributing to the development of the National AI Trust.
