The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has called for a decentralized approach to electricity supply in Nigeria, highlighting its importance in advancing artificial intelligence (AI) and socio-economic development.
She made this assertion during the 10th convocation ceremony of the African University of Science and Technology (AUST) in Abuja yesterday.
As a former Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Okonjo-Iweala emphasized that stable electricity is essential for increasing internet access, a prerequisite for AI skill acquisition.
“Power outages and constant interruptions are significant constraints in Nigeria and other African countries. Without access to reliable electricity, even the best AI adoption strategies will falter,” she stated.
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Okonjo-Iweala proposed leveraging renewable energy sources as a decentralized solution to Nigeria’s electricity challenges.
“With the improved affordability of renewable energy, production and learning units should create their electricity supply. AUST’s efforts in exploring hydro and solar energy as campus-wide solutions are commendable, though the N200 million needed for these projects must be mobilized,” she noted.
Addressing the rapid integration of AI globally, Okonjo-Iweala stressed the need for robust regulatory frameworks to ensure ethical use and data sovereignty.
“AI-driven systems raise concerns about privacy and governance, particularly as African economies rely on foreign providers. Nigeria must establish regulations tailored to its local context to mitigate risks and harness AI’s potential,” she advised.
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Citing the IMF’s AI Preparedness Index, where Nigeria scores 0.34, she highlighted the country’s lagging readiness and called for urgent action.
“Investments in ICT infrastructure, digital literacy, and workforce upskilling are vital. With proper planning, Nigeria can leverage AI to create jobs, boost economic growth, and remain globally competitive,” she said.
Okonjo-Iweala described AI as the most disruptive innovation since the internet, with the potential to redefine industries, create new jobs, and significantly boost global economic activity.
“Pricewaterhouse estimates AI could contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030. The Global South, including Nigeria, stands to gain immensely, but proactive measures are critical to realizing this potential,” she remarked.
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The WTO boss reaffirmed her confidence in Nigeria’s ability to overcome challenges with foresight and strategic investment, urging the nation not to be left behind in the AI revolution.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s call for decentralized electricity and AI readiness underscores the critical need for foundational investments to secure Nigeria’s place in the global digital economy.