As the Nigerian government persists in seeking solutions to insecurity, Kashifu Inuwa, the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), underscores the imperative of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into the security ecosystem.

Inuwa also stresses the need for enhanced collaboration between the security industry and the startup ecosystem to boost efficiency and effectiveness.

These statements were made during a meeting with the Commandant of the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS), Alhaji A. S Adeleke, represented by Deputy Commandant D. E Egbeji, along with faculty members and participants of the Executive Intelligence Management Course (EIMC 17). The theme of the course was “Artificial Intelligence, Security, and Emerging Economies in Africa: Challenges and Prospects,” held at the eGovernment Training Centre (eGTC), Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN), Kubwa, Abuja.

Inuwa emphasizes the distinct approaches of the security and information technology (IT) sectors, suggesting that collaboration could harness the vast opportunities offered by IT, including the utilization of AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), and other emerging technologies to strengthen the security sector.

He highlights the global significance of AI, dispelling misconceptions and emphasizing its role in simplifying tasks, providing quick answers, and offering solutions. Inuwa categorizes AI into three types: Narrow Intelligence, General AI, and Deep Learning AI, each with varying capabilities.

Inuwa details four categories of AI functionality: Reactive Machines, Limited Memory, Theory of Mind, and Self-Awareness. He explains how these categories operate and contribute to AI’s overall capabilities.

The NITDA actively supports AI growth in Nigeria through initiatives like the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) and the development of the National Artificial Intelligence Policy.

Expressing openness to strategic collaboration, Inuwa highlights that such partnerships align with the NITDA Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), particularly the pillar focused on forging strategic partnerships and collaborations.

Commandant NISS Alhaji A.S Adeleke expresses the institute’s intent to learn from NITDA’s experience for an executive brief for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, aiming to contribute to policy formulation and implementation.

Dr. Aristotle Onumo, the Director of Corporate Planning and Strategy, provides an overview of NITDA’s journey and its role in shaping information technology and development in Nigeria. He underscores the agency’s commitment to fostering innovation, digital literacy, and technological advancement.