Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, UNILAG Vice Chancellor
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof Folasade Ogunsola, has urged African nations to develop homegrown Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools tailored to the continent’s unique challenges.
She spoke during the three-day 5th International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (MIRG-ICAIR 2025) at the Multipurpose Hall of the University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos.
Represented by Prof Olufemi Saibu, Ogunsola highlighted UNILAG’s leadership in AI research, citing the recent launch of the OpenAI Academy for Africa and an upcoming AI lab donated by United Nations programmes. She stressed that the planned Faculty of Computing and Informatics will focus on African-oriented AI solutions.
Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, was represented by Dr Bunmi Ajala, who noted AI’s transformative role across various sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, education, and public services, describing it as vital infrastructure for Nigeria’s development.
Prof. Muhammad Abdul-Mageed of the University of British Columbia urged African researchers to create AI tools that reflect the continent’s linguistic and cultural diversity, emphasising the need for indigenous solutions.
Dr Chika Yinka-Banjo, Head of UNILAG’s Computer Science Department, welcomed participants and described the department as a hub for innovation, wishing the conference a successful outcome.
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