ABUJA, NIGERIA — Nigeria and China have expressed interest in expanding cooperation in artificial intelligence, the digital economy and communications technology.
Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, says the country is keen to strengthen cooperation and knowledge-sharing with China as it develops its digital economy.
Dr Tijani made the remarks during talks in Abuja with Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria Yu Dunhai.
He noted that greater cooperation could support Nigeria’s efforts to expand the use of emerging technologies while strengthening digital infrastructure and innovation.
Ambassador Yu said digital cooperation has become an important area of the China-Nigeria relationship, with Chinese companies already involved in the development of communications infrastructure in the country.
He indicated that China is prepared to expand cooperation in areas including digital technology, artificial intelligence and communications.
The two sides also discussed opportunities to align digital cooperation with Nigeria’s broader economic development priorities.
Dr Tijani said experience-sharing would be important as Nigeria seeks to develop its technology sector and create an environment that supports innovation.
Nigeria has one of Africa’s largest digital markets, supported by a growing technology ecosystem and increasing demand for online services, financial technology and digital communications.
Artificial intelligence is also attracting greater attention as governments and businesses explore its potential application in areas including public services, education, agriculture, healthcare and financial services.
China has developed significant capabilities in telecommunications, digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence, areas which have increasingly featured in its economic cooperation with African countries.
The discussions in Abuja form part of wider efforts by Nigeria and China to expand their comprehensive strategic partnership beyond traditional areas such as infrastructure and trade.
Both countries have indicated that technology and innovation will play a growing role in future bilateral cooperation.