The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency NITDA has called on African nations to take an active role in the global artificial intelligence AI revolution, warning that the continent cannot afford to be left behind as in previous industrial eras.
Speaking at the opening of GITEX Africa 2025 in Nigeria , the DG said AI offers Africa the opportunity to leapfrog development and drive exponential economic growth. He noted that global estimates show AI could boost the world economy by up to 20 within the next five years , but stressed that Africa must invest in human capital, infrastructure, and innovation to benefit.