Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept, it is already reshaping how economies grow, how work is done, and how nations compete.
As countries race to export AI-powered services and talent, experts warn that Nigeria risks missing another technology wave unless it urgently reforms its skills pipeline, infrastructure, and policy framework.
Speaking on AriseTV Global Business Report monitored by Techeconomy, digital transformation coach and futurist David Adeoye Abodunrin, described AI not as an emerging trend, but as a present-day economic force already redefining productivity and wealth creation.
“AI is not the future, it is already here,” Abodunrin said. “What many people call the future is simply the outcome of how we prepare for AI today.”
AI as an Economic Wake-Up Call
According to Abodunrin, the global economy is undergoing a structural shift, from oil-driven growth to algorithm-driven value creation. While advanced economies are rapidly positioning AI as a major export, Nigeria is still grappling with foundational issues, including outdated education systems and limited large-scale skills deployment.
“This is not a fallacy. It is a real wake-up call,” he warned. “AI is moving at geometric speed, while our institutions are still responding at an arithmetic pace.”
He noted that many policymakers continue to underestimate how deeply AI has already penetrated daily life, from email systems and data analytics to media production and financial services.
The Cost of Slow Adoption
Abodunrin argued that the biggest cost of delayed AI adoption will be borne by young Nigerians.
With universities producing thousands of graduates each year, many are being trained for job roles that either no longer exist or will soon become obsolete.
“We are training young people en masse for jobs that the future economy will not need,” he said. “That skills mismatch is dangerous, not just for individuals, but for the entire economy.”
He explained that while job displacement is inevitable, the greater risk lies in failing to prepare workers for new roles that AI will create across sectors such as finance, media, governance, and advanced services.
Beyond the Jobs Panic
Addressing fears around job losses, Abodunrin cautioned against denial while emphasizing opportunity.
“Some jobs will disappear, pretending otherwise is dishonest,” he said. “But there is far more to gain if Nigeria coordinates its response properly.”
He called for urgent curriculum reforms, aggressive reskilling initiatives, and stronger collaboration between government, industry, and educators.
According to him, AI should be seen as an economic tool, one that can democratize opportunity if deployed strategically.
A National Imperative
As the interview concluded, Abodunrin stressed that AI is not just a technology issue but a macroeconomic one requiring national urgency.
“This is something everybody needs to work on, especially at the highest macroeconomic levels,” he said. “If Nigeria gets this right, AI can become one of our most valuable exports. If not, we risk watching the future happen without us.”
