Nigeria is strengthening its capacity to govern artificial intelligence through internationally recognised standards, as the Federal Government partners with the United Kingdom to establish stronger frameworks for managing AI risks, accountability and responsible technology adoption. The initiative followed a four-day executive programme delivered by the British Standards Institution in partnership with the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, under the UK Government's Digital Access Programme. Senior government officials, regulators and technology practitioners examined how international standards can support AI governance, risk management, assurance and institutional oversight as Nigeria seeks to become a leading AI economy in Africa.
The workshop focused on two key standards. ISO/IEC 42001 provides requirements for AI management systems, while ISO/IEC 23894 offers guidance on managing risks associated with artificial intelligence. Participants explored practical ways organisations can apply such frameworks to improve accountability and support the safe deployment of AI systems. Grace Bell, first secretary for Economic Partnerships and Digital at the British High Commission, said responsible AI adoption requires appropriate governance frameworks, strong institutions and trusted standards. She noted that artificial intelligence presents opportunities for economic growth, innovation and social development, but realising these benefits requires the right governance underpinnings.
The collaboration involves multiple Nigerian institutions: the National Information Technology Development Agency, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, Nigeria Data Protection Commission, the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy. The partnership extends beyond AI governance to cover digital trust, data governance, cybersecurity, smart infrastructure, digital public services and electronic waste management. The British Standards Institution also held engagements with the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's climate finance team to assess e-waste management models and explore cooperation on digital trade standards.
Olubunmi Ajala, national coordinator of the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, said the collaboration had progressed beyond theoretical discussions towards developing institutional capacity for governing emerging technologies. He called for a permanent cross-government community of practice to strengthen coordination and knowledge-sharing among officials responsible for AI governance. The workshop concluded with a reception in Abuja, where participating officials were recognised for completing the programme.
The initiative is expected to contribute to a growing pool of policymakers, regulators and practitioners equipped to promote responsible AI adoption across Nigeria's public and private sectors. However, the UK Government acknowledged that practical impact will depend on how the knowledge gained through training is translated into institutional policies, operational safeguards and consistent oversight across government agencies and businesses. The UK said it would continue supporting Nigeria's digital transformation through partnerships aimed at strengthening governance, promoting trusted technology and encouraging sustainable and inclusive digital growth.