This week, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) of Nigeria has formalized a strategic partnership with the global technology firm Cisco by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This alliance is centered on the advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the innovation of smart agriculture practices. Both entities have expressed that their joint efforts are intended to harness the potential of digital technologies to foster a more inclusive future for Nigeria.
In line with this initiative, the Nigerian Federal Government has committed to working alongside Cisco, as well as other stakeholders in the industry and academic sectors, to expedite the country’s digital transformation. This collaboration will materialize through the execution of pilot projects in five pivotal domains:
- The transformation of the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) into a hub for AI and cybersecurity, functioning as both an experience center and an incubator for emerging technologies.
- The creation of a broadband innovation center aimed at enhancing internet connectivity solutions.
- The establishment of a smart agriculture demonstration farm to showcase and test advanced farming techniques.
- The design and implementation of technology learning hubs to foster digital education and skills development.
- The incubation of defense technology solutions to bolster national security.
These endeavors are in harmony with the strategic priorities outlined by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which emphasize the importance of diversifying the economy through digital innovation, reinforcing national security, and ensuring food security through modernized agricultural practices.
Kashifu Inuwa, the Director-General of NITDA, highlighted the intrinsic link between AI and cybersecurity, noting that this interconnection necessitates the enhancement of the NCAIR. He underscored the critical role of broadband connectivity as a cornerstone of digital transformation, asserting that the establishment of an innovation hub will stimulate the creation of cost-effective broadband solutions. This, in turn, will empower local startups and businesses to adopt cutting-edge technologies.
Inuwa also pointed out that Nigeria has set an ambitious National Broadband Plan, aiming for 95% coverage across the nation. Achieving this goal, he remarked, requires strategic and intelligent approaches to infrastructure development.
The smart agriculture initiative, as explained by Inuwa, is expected to significantly boost food production and agricultural productivity. By integrating Internet of Things (IoT) devices, drones, and other innovative technologies, the agricultural sector can experience a surge in efficiency and output.
In alignment with the President’s redefined priorities for food security, a mandate has been issued to cultivate half a million acres of land using technological aids to ensure success and efficiency.
Clayton Naidoo, the Country Director for Cisco, commented on the benefits of the MoU for Nigeria, anticipating enhancements in agricultural output and an overall boost to the economy. He emphasized Cisco’s commitment to leveraging technology to create economic opportunities that will spur economic growth and generate employment.
The foundation of this agreement is Cisco’s Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) Programme, a worldwide initiative that collaborates with governments and businesses to build communities that are sustainable, secure, and inclusive through the power of technology.
Naidoo disclosed that Cisco plans to work with NCAIR to construct an experience center in Nigeria, which will serve as a support platform for organizations across the country to develop robust cybersecurity measures and AI frameworks.
Furthermore, Cisco, in partnership with NITDA and Galaxy Backbone, will develop a broadband innovation hub. Additionally, Cisco intends to implement IoT solutions in smart agriculture, utilizing agricultural robots and drone technology to revolutionize farming practices in Nigeria.
