Nigeria’s AI Research Surge: From Zero to Twenty Papers in Under Two Years
Nigeria is rapidly establishing itself as a rising force in artificial intelligence (AI) research. In a remarkable display of progress, the nation has witnessed the publication of twenty peer-reviewed AI compute research papers within a span of less than two years. This surge marks a significant transition, moving from a starting point of zero publications to a position of growing prominence on the global AI research stage. This remarkable development showcases the nation’s commitment to entering and contributing to the global dialogue on AI innovation.
The Nigerian Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme (NAIRS) Driving the Change
This impressive growth is directly attributable to the Nigerian Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme (NAIRS). Launched in early 2024 by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy and funded through the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), NAIRS is a federally-backed initiative. The core objective of NAIRS is to reverse a concerning trend where Nigerian talent was contributing significantly to AI research globally, yet none of these contributions were affiliated with Nigerian institutions. NAIRS aims to shift the country’s role from merely exporting talent to fostering research output firmly rooted within Nigerian universities and laboratories. According to Olubunmi Ajala, National Director, “We discovered thousands of AI papers authored by Nigerians, but none tied to Nigerian institutions,” highlighting the structural gap that NAIRS seeks to rectify.
The rapid increase in AI research output signifies Nigeria’s dedication to leveraging AI’s potential for its development. This progress is critical for Africa’s overall tech landscape, indicating a growing capacity for homegrown innovation and research that could drive economic growth and address unique challenges facing the continent.
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