Adopt AI as tool for development, Obasanjo charges youths

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged African youth to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) to propel their careers forward. He spoke at the 5th Presidential Youth Mentoring Retreat held at the Youth Development Centre, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, drawing participants from across Africa.

Obasanjo remarked, “If I were between 20 and 35 years old and hadn’t settled on something, I would focus on AI. By 2040, driverless vehicles will be everywhere due to AI. The possibilities with AI are limitless.”

He shared his amazement after seeing AI write and refine a lecture.

“If I were your age, I would go for AI. By 2040, I may not be here, but I’m thankful for the potential you all have.”

Recalling a conversation with Aliko Dangote, Obasanjo noted that even PhD holders applied to drive trucks, a profession AI may soon replace.

“They’ll need to look at other career options as driverless tech advances.”

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Obasanjo also described the evolution of farming with technology, as he witnessed young people innovate with modern methods, such as soilless farming.

“We’ve moved from analogue to digital, and now to AI,” he said, urging youth to adapt to new technologies.

Reflecting on experiences that shaped him, Obasanjo stressed the lessons he learned between 1979 and 1999, including time in prison.

“I’m not advising prison, but every situation has a lesson. Some people are foolish, ignoring learning opportunities because of political differences. Learn every day—what have you learned in the past 24 hours?”

Guest speaker Dr. Ifeanyi Stanley highlighted factors for success, including mentorship, integrity, humility, and constant self-improvement.