GITEX Nigeria: Government Urges Development of African AI to Safeguard Cultural Identity
The Nigerian government has issued a strong call for the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions rooted in African languages and cultures, warning that the continent’s heritage is at risk of being lost in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. This crucial message resonated throughout the GITEX Nigeria Conference 2025 in Abuja, emphasizing the urgent need for Africa to cultivate its own Large Language Models (LLMs).
# The Imperative of African-Centric LLMs
Kashifu Inuwa, Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), passionately addressed attendees, highlighting the dangers of relying solely on globally dominant AI tools. These tools, trained predominantly on non-African data, risk overshadowing and ultimately erasing the continent’s unique linguistic and cultural identities. Inuwa stressed the necessity of creating African LLMs capable of preserving and accurately representing the continent’s stories and cultural values in the age of AI.
The resounding message from GITEX Nigeria is clear: Africa must proactively shape its AI future. By developing its own AI models, the continent can ensure its rich cultural heritage is not only preserved but also thrives in the digital era, safeguarding its identity for generations to come.
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