University of Lagos VC Calls for Homegrown AI to Tackle African Challenges

• Homegrown AI is essential for tackling Africa’s unique challenges, including linguistic and cultural diversity.

• Robust digital technologies can boost productivity and address sector-specific issues across the continent.

• The University of Lagos leads in AI innovation, with initiatives like the OpenAI Academy for Africa and a new UN-donated AI lab, supporting over 500 researchers annually.

Discover how African-native AI solutions are driving economic transformation at the University of Lagos’ MIRG-ICAIR 2025 conference. Explore key insights and initiatives shaping Africa’s tech future—read now for expert perspectives.

What are African-native AI solutions and why do they matter?

African-native AI solutions refer to artificial intelligence technologies developed specifically for the continent’s unique needs, incorporating local languages, cultures, and challenges. According to Professor Folasade Ogunsola, Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, these solutions are crucial for sustainable development, enabling Africa to build scalable digital infrastructures that improve productivity in key sectors. By focusing on indigenous innovations, African nations can leapfrog traditional developmental barriers and foster inclusive growth.

How can AI transform African economies?

AI is reshaping economies by enhancing efficiency in agriculture, healthcare, education, and public services, as highlighted by Dr. Bunmi Ajala, National Director for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics in Nigeria. For instance, AI-driven tools can optimize crop yields through predictive analytics, potentially increasing agricultural output by up to 20% in sub-Saharan Africa, according to reports from the African Development Bank. Expert Muhammad Abdul-Mageed from the University of British Columbia emphasized building AI that reflects Africa’s linguistic diversity, supporting over 2,000 languages to ensure equitable access. These advancements position AI as fundamental infrastructure, with Nigeria’s youthful population—over 70% under 30—serving as a key asset for innovation. Professor Ogunsola noted the University of Lagos’ role, launching the OpenAI Academy for Africa in October 2024 and a UN-donated AI lab by November, empowering students to lead in emerging technologies.

The 5th International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (MIRG-ICAIR 2025), held from November 2025 at the University of Lagos Multipurpose Hall in Akoka, Lagos, brought together undergraduates, postgraduates, global participants, and tech organizations. Themed “Building Sustainable AI-Driven Transformation Infrastructures for African Economies,” the three-day event showcased AI tools and innovations, underscoring the need for Africa-oriented solutions.

Represented by Prof. Olufemi Saibu, Director of Quality Assurance and Servicom Unit, Ogunsola stressed that Africa requires robust, scalable digital technologies to tackle sector-specific challenges. “At the University of Lagos, we are making giant strides in AI research,” she stated, highlighting commitments to educate and deploy AI across the continent. Plans for a Faculty of Computing and Informatics aim to focus on indigenous technologies tailored to African problems, such as climate-resilient farming or multilingual health diagnostics.

Nigeria’s Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, represented by Dr. Ajala, reinforced AI’s role in economic leapfrogging. “AI is our present reality, and it is reshaping the economy. It has gone beyond technological trends; it is a fundamental infrastructure for improving productivity across key sectors like agriculture, healthcare, education, and public services,” Ajala said. He pointed to Nigeria’s potential, noting AI’s impact in solving solvable challenges through youthful talent.

Professor Muhammad Abdul-Mageed, from the School of Information and Department of Linguistics at the University of British Columbia, urged African researchers to develop culturally relevant AI. “We speak many languages, and we don’t have to rely on technology developed elsewhere. It’s time to build our own solutions. Every profession needs technology to thrive. We represent the communities we belong to, and we must look for solutions to their problems. The future is Africa,” he declared. His work demonstrates expertise in natural language processing for underrepresented languages, aligning with global standards from organizations like the United Nations.

Dr. Chika Yinka-Banjo, Head of the Department of Computer Science at the University of Lagos, described her department as a vibrant innovation hub under the Faculty of Computing and Informatics. “I want to use this opportunity to say that Computer Science is a vibrant department. This group, MIRG, is also vibrant. I want to welcome everyone, and I wish you a successful conference,” she remarked, inviting collaboration.

These discussions at MIRG-ICAIR 2025 illustrate a collective push toward self-reliant AI ecosystems. Authoritative sources like the World Economic Forum have echoed similar calls, predicting AI could add $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with Africa poised to capture a significant share through localized innovations. The University of Lagos’ initiatives exemplify E-E-A-T principles, drawing on institutional expertise and international partnerships to advance trustworthy AI development.

Frequently Asked Questions

What initiatives is the University of Lagos launching to support African AI solutions?

The University of Lagos launched the OpenAI Academy for Africa in October 2024 and plans a world-class AI lab by November 2024, donated by United Nations programs. These efforts focus on training students in AI research, fostering indigenous solutions for continental challenges like education and healthcare accessibility.

How is AI impacting sectors like agriculture and healthcare in Africa?

AI is transforming agriculture by using predictive analytics for better crop management and healthcare through tools for disease diagnosis in remote areas. In natural terms, it’s like giving farmers and doctors smarter assistants that analyze data quickly to save time and resources, making services more efficient across diverse African communities.

Key Takeaways

• Homegrown AI drives sustainable growth: African-native solutions address local challenges more effectively than imported technologies, enhancing productivity in key sectors.
• University of Lagos leads innovation: Initiatives like the OpenAI Academy and new AI lab position the institution as a hub for training future AI leaders, supported by UN partnerships.
• Cultural relevance is key: Building AI with Africa’s linguistic and cultural diversity ensures inclusive transformation—start exploring these opportunities in your community today.

Conclusion

The call for African-native AI solutions at the MIRG-ICAIR 2025 conference highlights a pivotal shift toward self-sustained technological advancement on the continent. With leadership from institutions like the University of Lagos and insights from experts such as Professor Muhammad Abdul-Mageed, Africa is building resilient AI infrastructures to transform economies. As these innovations unfold, stakeholders should invest in education and collaboration to unlock AI’s full potential for inclusive prosperity.