Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for a technology-driven approach to combating terrorism, cybercrime, and border security challenges across Africa, highlighting the continent’s young population as a critical asset in driving digital transformation.
Speaking at the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) in Abuja, Mr Shettima argued that artificial intelligence (AI) presents unprecedented opportunities to address complex issues in agriculture, healthcare, financial inclusion, and national security.
“Africa and Nigeria are currently navigating some of the most troubling times, especially in security and economic arenas,” the vice president said. “The challenges we face require innovative solutions.”
Drawing inspiration from Franklin D. Roosevelt, Mr Shettima urged resilience, declaring, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”
The vice president highlighted Nigeria’s demographic advantage, noting the country’s average age is just 16.9 years. He stressed that the continent’s tech-savvy youth are essential in bridging skill gaps and driving technological innovation.
Mr Shettima pointed to successful Nigerian technology companies like Moniepoint, Interswitch, Flutterwave, and OPay as evidence of the nation’s potential for innovation, stating they demonstrate remarkable success despite infrastructural challenges.
The speech came during the graduation of the Executive Intelligence Management Course 17, which included participants from Nigeria and four other African nations: Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Rwanda, and The Gambia.
Commandant Joseph Odama of NISS praised the course’s focus on “Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Economies in Africa”, highlighting how it has fostered strategic thinking and innovative problem-solving.
Mr Shettima concluded by emphasising the transformative potential of technology: “AI can help us combat emerging threats like terrorism and cybercrime, while also enhancing border security. By leveraging technology, we can replicate African success stories and apply them domestically.”
