Federal Government targets 50,000 AI jobs by 2030

The Federal Government hopes to create about 50,000 jobs through Artificial Intelligence (AI) by 2030.

Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, made this known yesterday, when he released the ministry’s blueprint for the next four years.

In the 31-page document, titled: ‘Accelerating Our Collective Prosperity Through Technical Efficiency’, the minister, who made references to PwC Report,

McKinsey Global Institute Analysis and Accenture Report, submitted that AI would usher in a new era of technological and economic transformation over the next two decades

He said as an emerging economy, it is imperative that Nigeria formulates a far-reaching national strategy to harness the potential of AI in an inclusive and responsible manner.

Consequently, Tijani said the most populous black nation is taking a unique approach to provide the requisite expertise and perspectives to craft a forward-looking strategy.

“The implementation of the strategy among other things is expected to elevate Nigeria as a top 10 location for AI model training and talents globally. In addition, we will position Nigeria as a global leader in accelerating inclusivity in AI dataset,” he stated.

The minister said the plan is also to achieve top 50 global ranking (currently 96) in AI readiness and adoption across metrics (computing power, skills, data availability, ethics and governance) by 2030.

He submitted that the blueprint encompasses five key pillars – knowledge, policy, infrastructure, innovation, entrepreneurship and capital (IEC) and trade.

Each pillar, he said, is integral to the ministry’s mission and interconnected with others, forming the foundation of the strategy.

Tijani added: “Knowledge is the cornerstone upon which innovation thrives, and is built upon the bedrock of sound policies. Infrastructure provides the essential backbone for a thriving digital economy, while innovation and entrepreneurship drive economic diversification. Trade, the fifth pillar, represents our commitment to global collaboration and partnerships, recognising that innovation knows no borders.

“As we embark on this transformative journey, we do so with an unwavering sense of purpose. We understand that the road ahead may be challenging, but it is through these challenges that we find the impetus to evolve and adapt. Together, we will harness the power of technology to elevate Nigeria’s standing on the global stage, create sustainable employment opportunities, and improve the quality of life for all Nigerians.”

Recall that in August, the minister called for applications from researchers of Nigerian descent from across the globe to help the country to create its National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy.

Tijani announced this via X (Twitter), and urged Nigerians to share details of any top researcher they know.

He said a recent research (PwC, 2018) showed that Al could contribute up to $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with $3 trillion from increased productivity and $9.1 trillion from new products and services.