Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for the implementation of technology-based approaches to address the pressing issues of terrorism, cybercrime, and border security that Nigeria and the broader African continent are currently facing.
During a meeting in Abuja with members of Executive Intelligence Management Course 17 from the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS), Shettima acknowledged that both Nigeria and Africa are grappling with severe security and economic difficulties that demand creative solutions.
He stated, “As Africa and Nigeria confront these troubling times, particularly in security and economic sectors, we must seek innovative answers. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers a wealth of opportunities to improve areas such as agriculture, healthcare, financial inclusion, and security.”
Quoting Franklin D. Roosevelt, Shettima emphasized the need for resilience, asserting, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”
Highlighting the effective security measures implemented by Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, he noted, “Mbah has successfully mitigated the threats posed by those exploiting our security vulnerabilities, showcasing what can be achieved through strategic planning.”
Shettima also pointed out Nigeria’s youthful demographic, with an average age of 16.9 years, as a vital resource for the nation’s progress.
He remarked that advancements in AI could lead to substantial improvements in essential economic sectors, stating, “Africa is the youngest continent, and our tech-savvy youth are crucial in bridging the skills gap necessary to address these challenges. Where there is a will, there is always a way.”
The vice president referenced successful Nigerian startups such as Moniepoint, Interswitch, Flutterwave, and OPay, emphasizing that despite infrastructural challenges, these companies demonstrate the potential for impressive success through innovation and determination.
Shettima encouraged leaders and participants to maintain a positive and proactive mindset, saying, “Let our challenges motivate us to strive for excellence. Our youth are key to driving AI advancements in agriculture, healthcare, and finance. Together, we can surmount obstacles and pave the way for a prosperous future for Nigeria and Africa.”
He concluded by reiterating that AI can be instrumental in combating emerging threats like terrorism and cybercrime while simultaneously improving border security. By harnessing technology, Nigeria can replicate successful African models and apply these lessons at home.
