The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and Wigwe University have initiated discussions toward a broad collaboration focused on artificial intelligence research, agricultural innovation and digital talent development.
The engagement, held in Abuja, brought together senior NITDA officials and a delegation led by Wigwe University Vice Chancellor Professor Marwan Al Akaidi. Both institutions signalled alignment in expertise and national development priorities.
Professor Al Akaidi said the university was established with the ambition of becoming “the university of Africa,” delivering high-quality teaching and transformative research for Nigeria and the continent. He noted that while Nigeria has significant talent, it often lacks platforms and partnerships to fully harness it.
The Vice Chancellor disclosed that the university is currently conducting AI-for-health research in Nigeria with a team of 10 researchers and is working toward establishing a dedicated AI centre. He stated that the institution aims to develop locally driven AI solutions that reflect Nigeria’s needs, languages and realities rather than relying solely on foreign-built tools.
He also highlighted opportunities for AI-enabled agricultural innovation, given the university’s location in Rivers State, surrounded by farming communities. According to him, applying AI to livestock management, land use optimisation and food processing could significantly improve productivity and food security.
NITDA representatives welcomed the proposal, noting that the university’s focus aligns with the agency’s strategic roadmap, particularly in research and development, innovation and partnership.
Dr Aristotle, representing NITDA, described the agency as Nigeria’s technology development and regulatory powerhouse, with mandates covering IT development, innovation, standards and research. He pointed to existing initiatives such as the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics and the National Adaptive Village for Smart Agriculture as potential collaboration platforms.
He stressed that partnerships are central to NITDA’s approach, noting that no single institution can drive national technological advancement alone.
NITDA’s Director of Research and Development, Dr Kumo, added that the agency is working to strengthen Nigeria’s technology research ecosystem and improve its global research standing. He said Wigwe University’s interests in AI, robotics, unmanned aerial vehicles, blockchain and additive manufacturing align with NITDA’s research priorities.
Dr Tambuwal from NITDA’s Digital Literacy and Capacity Building Department emphasised the importance of developing a digitally skilled workforce. He said universities must produce graduates equipped with modern digital competencies to meet evolving industry demands.
Professor Al Akaidi underscored the need for continuous curriculum review to ensure computing and engineering programmes remain relevant. He said universities must produce graduates who are not only job seekers but job creators, adding that Wigwe University is deliberately building an innovation-driven culture among its students.
Both institutions agreed to establish dedicated teams to map out specific collaboration areas, including AI research, agricultural technology, virtual learning, digital literacy and emerging technologies.
The discussions concluded with a commitment to move from dialogue to implementation, positioning the partnership as a potential driver of Nigeria’s technological advancement.
