Nigeria and the United Kingdom have intensified cooperation on artificial intelligence (AI) governance, digital transformation and technology standards as both countries seek to promote responsible innovation and strengthen the digital economy.
The renewed partnership follows engagements involving the British Standards Institution (BSI) and Nigerian government agencies under the UK Government’s Digital Access Programme.
A major highlight was an executive workshop on AI governance and standards organised in collaboration with Nigeria’s National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR). The programme brought together senior government officials, regulators and technology professionals to explore practical approaches to managing the risks associated with artificial intelligence.
Participants examined internationally recognised standards for AI management, risk assessment, accountability and oversight, including ISO/IEC 42001, which provides requirements for AI management systems, and ISO/IEC 23894, which offers guidance on AI risk management.
The initiative is also intended to strengthen Nigeria’s institutional capacity to regulate emerging technologies while creating an environment that supports innovation and economic growth.
Speaking at a high-level reception in Abuja, Grace Bell, First Secretary for Economic Partnerships and Digital at the British High Commission, reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital development.
She emphasised the importance of effective governance frameworks and trusted international standards in ensuring that artificial intelligence is adopted safely and responsibly.
According to her, cooperation between both countries reflects a shared commitment to using technology standards to encourage investment, improve trade and build public confidence in digital services.
The partnership also involves collaboration with agencies including the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission.
Other areas of cooperation include cybersecurity, data protection, digital trust, smart infrastructure, digital public services and electronic waste management.
Meanwhile, NCAIR National Coordinator Dr Olubunmi Ajala highlighted the importance of building Nigeria’s capacity to govern artificial intelligence, noting that the partnership was helping move discussions beyond theory towards practical institutional development.
The collaboration comes as Nigeria seeks to expand its digital economy and strengthen its position in Africa’s emerging artificial intelligence sector.
