NITDA trains youths on use of AI for communication

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA,) has equipped the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) with training on integrating the technology into Nigeria’s digital landscape.

Addressing the theme: “Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Strategic Communication,” at the unveiling of the PRNigeria Ilorin Centre office and its Young Communication Fellowship in the Oloje area on Thursday, the Director General/Chief Executive Officer of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, said the hub is created and dedicated merely to AI research, innovation, and skills development.

According to him: “we have set forth initiatives to foster digital literacy, AI training, and capacity building that ensure Nigeria has the human capital necessary to thrive in this AI-driven era.

“At NITDA, we believe in harnessing the power of AI to build a future that is not only innovative but also ethical and inclusive.”

Inuwa noted that the rise of social media, digital platforms, and 24/7 news cycles have altered how information is shared and consumed.

Allaying fears entertained in certain quarters that the birth of AI would threaten many many jobs, Inuwa said: “AI is now playing a critical role in managing this vast landscape. Whether through automated content generation, data analytics, or chatbots for real-time customer interaction, AI enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of communication efforts.”

He said that NITDA recognises the transformative potential of AI in redefining Communications, engaging the public, and strategise an increasingly interconnected world.

“AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it is here, and it is revolutionizing industries, especially the field of communication. In the digital age, strategic communication has undergone a significant paradigm shift,” he said.

READ ALSO: NITDA DG, Nigerian researchers make presentations at UN Conference on electronic governance

“For public relations professionals, AI offers tools to predict trends, understand audience sentiment, and tailor messages in ways that were previously unimaginable.

“Through Natural Language Processing (NLP), AI systems can analyze massive datasets, monitor media coverage, and even respond to crises in real time. This gives communicators the agility needed to navigate today’s complex media environment.”

Also speaking, the governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, described mentorship, skill development, and networking opportunities as crucial in building a robust communication framework for the nation.

Represented by the communication commissioner, Bolanle Olukoju, AbdulRazaq said the state is exploring the rapidly evolving landscape of digital media, public relations, and communications, saying: “It is important that we invest in the next generation of leaders in this field.

“The role of effective communication cannot be overemphasized, whether in governance, public health, business, or the promotion of social good. It is through strong, transparent, and informed communication that we foster trust, collaboration, and shared progress.”

Meanwhile, the state coordinator of PRNigeria, Yushau Shuaib, commended the Nobel laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, for his support for the project and disclosed that only 10 were selected for the two weeks of Public Relations training from over 140 applications.

He expressed confidence that not less than 300 would have been trained in Kwara before the end of the first quarter in 2025, adding that 30 have been trained in the state.