Stakeholders have called on Nigeria and China to deepen cooperation on artificial intelligence by developing people centred policies, strengthening digital infrastructure and investing in local talent, warning that Africa risks being left behind if it remains a consumer rather than a creator of emerging technologies.
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The call was made at the third Lagos Forum 2026, themed “A People Centred Approach to AI Governance: Nigeria China Cooperation to Bridge the Divide,”. The event held on Wednesday was jointly organised by the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs(NIIA) and the Institute of African Studies at Zhejiang Normal University in China (IASZNU).
Speakers said artificial intelligence offers Nigeria a unique opportunity to transform its economy, improve public services and create new jobs, but stressed that success will depend on responsible governance, stronger digital infrastructure, skilled talent and policies that ensure the technology benefits everyone.
Representing the Director General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Eghosa Osaghae, Femi Otubanjo, said artificial intelligence is already reshaping economies around the world, bringing both opportunities and new risks.
