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Artificial intelligence (AI) could increase the economic output of Nigeria and the wider Sub-Saharan African region by up to 4% over the next decade, provided governments invest in reliable electricity, faster internet connectivity, digital infrastructure, and AI skills, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The projection was contained in a new IMF report titled Unlocking the Potential: AI in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The IMF noted that while AI presents significant opportunities to improve productivity, innovation, and economic growth, the region remains the least prepared globally to harness the technology due to inadequate power supply, limited internet access, shortages of skilled workers, and weak regulatory frameworks. It warned that without major reforms and investments, AI’s contribution to regional GDP would be only 0.2% over the next decade.
The Fund urged governments to prioritise investments in electricity, broadband infrastructure, digital education, and effective AI governance to unlock the technology’s full economic potential. It also stressed that stronger public-private partnerships and improved digital infrastructure would help ensure AI drives inclusive growth, creates jobs, and narrows development gaps across Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.
