Abuja, Nigeria — Nigeria is positioning itself at the forefront of artificial intelligence governance in Africa, with lawmakers reviewing comprehensive AI legislation expected to pass by March 2026. The development comes as the country inaugurates its first National AI Centre of Excellence, signaling a coordinated push to harness the technology’s potential while establishing robust oversight frameworks.
The National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill, currently under parliamentary review, would establish Nigeria as one of the first African nations to implement economy-wide AI regulations. If approved, the legislation will grant regulators significant powers to oversee AI deployment across critical sectors including finance, public administration, surveillance, and automated decision-making systems.
Under the proposed framework, regulatory authorities would have the power to demand information from AI providers and issue enforcement directives. Companies found in violation could face fines of up to 10 million naira (approximately $7,000) or 2% of their annual gross revenue generated in Nigeria, whichever is higher.
The bill introduces a risk-based approach to AI governance, subjecting high-risk applications to stricter scrutiny. This tiered system aims to balance innovation with public safety, particularly in sectors where AI decisions could significantly impact citizens’ lives and rights.
“Nigeria is taking a proactive stance on AI regulation,” said industry observers, noting that the move comes amid growing global concerns about AI safety, bias, and accountability. The legislation reflects lessons learned from regulatory approaches in the European Union and other jurisdictions that have grappled with similar challenges.
Complementing the regulatory push, Nigeria launched its National Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence at the University of Jos on January 7, 2026, during the institution’s 50th convocation ceremony. The center will serve as a national hub for advanced AI research, skills development, policy engagement, and innovation.
The dual approach of establishing both regulatory frameworks and research infrastructure demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to developing a sustainable AI ecosystem. The Centre of Excellence is expected to contribute to policy development while nurturing homegrown AI talent and solutions tailored to local challenges.
Nigeria’s digital economy has experienced rapid growth in recent years, with technology startups attracting significant investment and the country emerging as a continental leader in fintech and digital innovation. The AI regulatory framework aims to provide legal certainty for businesses while protecting consumers and ensuring ethical AI deployment.
As African nations increasingly recognize AI’s transformative potential, Nigeria’s comprehensive approach could serve as a model for regional AI governance. With the bill’s passage anticipated within months, the country is set to establish clear rules of engagement for one of the 21st century’s most consequential technologies.
The initiative has drawn attention from international observers and African policymakers alike, who are watching closely as Nigeria charts a path that other nations on the continent may follow in developing their own AI governance frameworks.
