AI Development Holds Key to Economic Growth, Social Progress says Expert

In an ongoing mission to combat poverty and achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals, Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerges as a potent yet underutilized tool says Tomi Alagbe, a renowned software developer.

Alagbe emphasizes the need for concerted efforts, particularly in developing countries, to harness AI’s potential and bridge existing inequality gaps.

He added that AI presents a unique opportunity for Nigeria and Africa at large to address pressing development challenges and drive innovation across various sectors.

Highlighting Nigeria’s demographic trends and economic landscape, he explains AI’s capacity to introduce transformative technological solutions.

“The establishment of an ethical framework is imperative to ensure the sustainable and inclusive development and deployment of AI technologies,” Alagbe affirms.

The tech expert says he envisions AI’s impact as far-reaching, with the potential to uplift millions by providing scalable solutions that enhance livelihoods.

Drawing attention to specific sectors, Alagbe outlines AI’s potential contributions.

“In agriculture, AI can empower smallholder farmers with tools for large-scale, high-yield farming,” he states. Furthermore, in healthcare, AI offers avenues for digital services ranging from diagnosis to disease management, AI offers a solution for healthcare gaps in underserved areas by supporting local medical professionals.

By integrating AI tools like language and image processing into community health centers, practitioners can deliver care that might otherwise be unavailable.

Telehealth services through phone and video enable remote consultations with specialists and general practitioners, enhancing access to medical advice and treatment coordination, thus bolstering public health initiatives.”

However, Alagbe acknowledges the hurdles hindering the local development and deployment of AI solutions in Nigeria.

“Challenges such as a deficient education system, limited data infrastructure, and inadequate broadband penetration must be addressed,” he notes.

To surmount these obstacles, Alagbe proposes a multifaceted approach. “Investments in ICT infrastructure at all education levels are crucial to nurturing digital literacy and STEM disciplines,” he suggests. Moreover, he advocates for broadband expansion through strategic partnerships to ensure widespread access.

The dawn of the Fourth Industrial Revolution heralds both promise and peril for developing nations. Alagbe warns that without deliberate policies and collaborative efforts, the benefits of AI may elude countries like Nigeria.

“In embracing AI, Nigeria stands at the threshold of unprecedented economic opportunities and social development,” Alagbe concludes. However, he emphasizes the urgency of concerted action to propel AI adoption and unlock its full potential for national progress.

Alagbe expresses his concerns on how AI adoption in Nigeria is still in its infancy despite the growing number of start-ups and established businesses using AI solutions to deliver customer services.

Alagbe’s call for action stresses the importance of proactive steps to ensure Nigeria leads in tech advancement and inclusive growth amid AI’s global impact.