Artificial Intelligence (AI) has gained significant attention in recent years, and especially in 2023 –but AI is not new and can trace its history back to the development of computers after the Second World War, with the Dartmouth Conference in 1956 bringing together researchers from multiple fields to explore “thinking machines”. This is widely considered the start of AI as a distinct field of study and where the term “Artificial Intelligence” was used for the first time by the visionaries at that conference.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is the theory and development of computer systems capable of performing tasks that historically required human intelligence, such as recognizing speech, making decisions, and identifying patterns. AI is an umbrella term that encompasses a wide variety of technologies, including machine Learning, Deep thinking, and natural language processing (NLP).
An Artificial Intelligence (AI) course is an educational program that teaches how to develop computer systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making.
In Nigeria, a few industries, including healthcare, agriculture, education, and finance, might be significantly impacted by artificial intelligence (AI). Technology offers improved efficiency, precision, and productivity, which can help solve important difficulties encountered by these industries. AI has the potential to enhance diagnostic precision and patient results in healthcare, especially in distant regions where there is limited availability of medical experts. AI has the potential to increase crop production and enhance resource efficiency in agriculture by implementing precision farming methods. The utilization of AI in education can customize learning experiences, leading to improved student results. In the field of banking, AI can augment fraud detection and client service.
Importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Nigeria
In Nigeria, almost everything is done manually, even though we now live in the time where a lot of works are taken over by machines (Artificial Intelligence). Therefore, artificial intelligence has a key role to play in the world of technology of developing nations like Nigeria.
1. Greater Assistance to Humans: The use of artificial intelligence will assist humans to get the work done faster and with accurate results. Error free and efficient worlds are the main motives behind artificial intelligence.
2. Greater Advancement in Technology: Scientists believe that once the AI system starts working in its full capacity, it will reinvent the world of technology that we know today, and Nigeria will not be an exception if it places greater importance on the development of AI.
Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria
1. Administrative Efficiency: AI can enhance operational efficiency by automating routine administrative tasks, thereby saving time and reducing human error. In Nigerian universities, common administrative activities such as processing applications, handling course registrations, scheduling examinations, and responding to student queries can be handled more effectively with AI-powered solutions.
2. Research and Academic Support: Academic research is the backbone of higher education, and AI can significantly accelerate and enhance the research process. AI-powered tools such as natural language processing, machine learning, and semantic search engines can assist researchers in discovering relevant literature, analyzing data, and visualizing complex results.
3. Banking: Banks and other financial institutions all over the world have begun adopting the AI technology into their systems and Nigeria cannot be an exception. It can create a huge impact on the business and commerce of the banking industry in Nigeria.
Challenges of Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria
1. Inadequate Infrastructure: One of the most critical impediments to the adoption of AI in Nigerian higher education is the lack of enabling infrastructure. The implementation of AI systems requires robust ICT infrastructure, including reliable internet connectivity, modern computing equipment, cloud computing platforms, and uninterrupted power supply.
2. High Cost of Implementation: AI systems are capital-intensive, requiring substantial investment in both hardware and software. The costs associated with acquiring AI platforms, setting up infrastructure, training staff, licensing software, and conducting regular maintenance are often beyond the financial capacity of many Nigerian public universities.
Conclusion
To fully harness the potential of AI, Nigeria must prioritize digitization across sectors, generating a comprehensive dataset to drive innovation. Encouraging a digital-first mindset by promoting digitization at the tertiary level can yield significant benefits. This revolutionizing ability of AI can be of immense benefits to the Nigerian economy and society if AI is deliberately given a priority to strive in the nation. Artificial intelligence (AI) makes it possible for machines to learn from experience, adjust to new inputs and perform human-like tasks.