Kaduna State to Enhance Governance through AI, Robotics

Kaduna State Governor in Northwest Nigeria, Uba Sani, has expressed his government’s dedication to utilising artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics to stimulate development and enhance governance.

Speaking on Tuesday at the third artificial intelligence and robotics summit in Kaduna, themed ‘Harnessing AI and Robotics for National Prosperity,’ Sani, represented by his deputy, Dr Hadiza Balarabe, emphasised that with the rapid technological advancements in AI and robotics, his administration aims to ensure residents are not left behind. Furthermore,

He underscored his administration’s commitment to leveraging digital technology to improve citizens’ quality of life.

According to the governor, Kaduna is exploring digital technology in different sectors to drive development in the state.

“This is why the theme of the summit, ‘Harnessing AI and Robotics for National Prosperity’, is apt and well-timed.

“The theme underscores our commitment to exploring the full potential of artificial intelligence and robotics to drive economic growth, enhance productivity and improve the quality of life for our citizens.
“Kaduna State Government, under my administration, has launched initiatives to foster innovation and technological advancement within the state.

”They include the establishment of Kaduna Technology City, a hub for tech-driven entrepreneurship.

“The second is the Kaduna State Digital Strategy implementation, which outlines the state government’s vision for the development of ICT, e-governance, and IT infrastructure in all facets of the state.”

The governor said that the state was also investing in fibre optics infrastructure and data centres through projects and programmes aimed at leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance urban infrastructure and services.

“We are partnering with global tech giants such as Google and Huawei to advance our technological capabilities.

“Through the partnership with Google, for instance, we are providing AI skills specifically targeted at empowering 5000 women in the state.

“We are proud to support the burgeoning youth-run private innovation hubs springing up all around the state.

“These hubs serve as a vibrant ecosystem for creativity, collaboration, and entrepreneurship; we are committed to providing them with the necessary resources and support to thrive.

“In Kaduna, we are actively exploring the application of these technologies in sectors such as security, agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing to drive sustainable development and inclusive growth across our state,” Sani said.

Sani also commended the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) for conferring on him an award as the Digital Governor of the Year during the 2023 Nigeria Information Technology Merit Award held in Lagos State. He described the award as a recognition of the state government’s effort in information technology.

He said it also underscored the role of collaboration between government, industry, academia, and other professional organisations in driving technological innovation and development in the nation.

NAN/Chidimma Gold