Experts at the Next Big Thing Continental (TNBTC) conference have emphasised the need for ethical and strategic adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in Africa, citing its potential to drive development while addressing associated risks.
Themed “AI Orchestration: The Conductor Approach,” the event underscored the importance of frameworks that balance innovation with safeguards to ensure AI benefits society.
In his opening address, Maj. Gen. N.C. Maduegbunam (Rtd.), the chairman of the occasion, described AI as a transformative force reshaping industries and global interactions.
“Artificial intelligence is not just a trend; it is revolutionising how we engage with information, business, and one another,” he said, citing its applications in healthcare, finance, agriculture, and climate science.
He stressed the need for responsible AI adoption, highlighting challenges such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and automation ethics.
“We must build AI systems that are trustworthy, transparent, and inclusive. Our efforts must align with sustainable development goals to ensure no one is left behind,” Maduegbunam added.
The president of TNBTC, Dr Ralphs Nwosu, described the event as a platform to position Africa as a global leader in technological innovation.
Drawing parallels to the rise of the Asian Tigers, he urged the continent to harness its human and natural potential to compete globally.
“When will the African lion begin to roar? Our youth excel globally; it’s time to harmonise their creativity and innovation to transform the continent,” he remarked.
Nwosu also emphasised the importance of context-specific data in AI development, urging African nations to contribute local knowledge to global AI frameworks.
“Machine learning thrives on data that reflects our realities. AI systems must integrate insights from Nigeria’s military, police, universities, and industries to remain relevant,” he said.
Participants called for collaboration between academia, industry, and government to guide AI deployment and secure Africa’s role in the global technology ecosystem.
“Technology isn’t a plug-and-play solution; it requires deliberate effort to adapt to our unique needs,” Maduegbunam noted, urging swift action to bridge the technological gap.
The conference explored AI’s role in addressing critical challenges such as climate change, healthcare access, and education disparities while promoting equity and uplifting vulnerable populations.
They concluded with a call for stakeholders to ensure Africa is not left behind in the AI revolution. Organisers announced that TNBTC 2025 would focus on integrating AI into Africa’s development agenda to drive innovation and global influence.
