“FORM IDEAS AROUND AI AND RURAL TELEPHONY, STAKEHOLDERS URGED”
Nigerians are encouraged to brainstorm ideas concerning Artificial Intelligence (AI) and rural telephony, as these areas hold potential to positively impact Nigeria’s economy and employment, particularly for the youth.
This call was reiterated during the ‘Idea Dinner with the Top CEOs’ event organized by TechLife Media & Communications Limited. The event brought together key stakeholders from the Nigerian business community, especially those in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry.
Speakers emphasized the importance of leveraging the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) managed by the NCC to develop viable ideas. By doing so, telephone services could be extended to all 774 local government areas nationwide, fostering job creation, curbing rural-urban migration, and boosting the industry’s contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP).
Various stakeholders present at the event, including Information Connectivity Solutions Limited, Digital Realty, Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria, TeamNigeria for Change, Inlaks, Coscharis Technologies, among others, advocated for local manufacturing of essential industry equipment. This approach could alleviate Nigeria’s foreign exchange challenges.
Ms. Ugochi Emmanuel, the convener of the event, highlighted its focus on “Critical Thinking to Building a Sustainable Digital Economy.” She underscored the transformative potential of digital technologies and the imperative for collective strategic thinking to address associated challenges.
Emmanuel emphasized the need to stay updated on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, big data analytics, and the Internet of Things, which are reshaping industries and creating new opportunities. She stressed the importance of robust technological solutions, risk management, ethical considerations, and regulatory compliance in addressing cybersecurity and data privacy challenges.
Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of bridging the digital divide and ensuring equitable sharing of the benefits of the digital revolution. Achieving a sustainable digital economy requires innovative strategies, cross-sector collaboration, and a commitment to inclusivity.
Source: Techeconomy
