The Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, has restated its strong commitment to harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a driving force for Nigeria’s transformation, with a focus on inclusive and ethical applications across critical sectors.
This position was highlighted at the 4th Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Summit hosted by the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) at Protea Hotel, Owerri, Imo State.
Representing the Rector, Dr. Basilia Nkemdilim Igbokwe, the Acting Director of ICT, Dr. Ijeoma Emeagi Agwamba, FNCS, delivered a keynote address during the summit, which was themed “AI as an Emerging Technology for National Development.”
According to a statement from the Office of the Special Assistant to the Rector on Media Matters, Dr. Igbokwe emphasized that AI should not be viewed as a luxury but as a necessary tool to address some of Nigeria’s most pressing issues.
These include insecurity, poor healthcare in rural areas, educational gaps, and outdated farming practices.
She outlined the Polytechnic’s ongoing efforts to integrate AI into its systems and operations. These include curriculum reforms aligning with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE)’s unbundling policy to incorporate AI-relevant skills, smart campus initiatives led by the ICT Directorate to digitize internal processes, and inclusive training programs aimed at equipping women and marginalized student groups with essential digital skills.
Dr. Igbokwe also pointed to the need for AI solutions tailored specifically to Nigeria’s realities. She highlighted challenges such as language barriers and low digital literacy in rural communities, as well as cultural and gender biases that discourage young girls from pursuing STEM-related fields.
She called for AI-driven interventions that address localized security and agricultural issues.
In a broader national appeal, the institution advocated for collaborative efforts among government bodies, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders to design context-specific AI frameworks.
The Rector underscored the importance of ethical policy development to ensure fair and equitable access to AI technologies, alongside investments in capacity building to develop local AI experts, regulators, and solution developers—not just consumers.
Concluding her address, Dr. Agwamba echoed the Rector’s vision, stating, “The future of Nigeria’s development lies in how boldly and inclusively we embrace Artificial Intelligence. AI must work for everyone – in every community, from cities to the most remote villages.”
The summit brought together leading voices from academia, industry, and government to explore strategies for AI-powered national growth.
