In Kogi State, Nigeria, the future is arriving faster than its leaders can anticipate. While the world races toward an AI-driven reality, Kogi lingers in the shadows, cautious and underprepared. Artificial Intelligence is not a mere buzzword—it is the engine propelling nations into the 21st century, and those who fail to harness it risk falling irretrievably behind.
The Vice Chancellor of Kogi State University, Kabba, Professor Kehinde Eniola, has consistently sounded the alarm. He calls for increased investment and adoption of AI across sectors, highlighting its potential to revolutionize governance, education, and the economy. Yet, his appeals are largely ignored, as the state clings to traditional models of administration and development.
Even in the media, a sector crucial for information and civic engagement, AI remains barely tapped. Studies reveal that AI is limited to editing tasks, grammar checks, and combating misinformation. The broader possibilities—data analytics for policy, automated citizen feedback, predictive modeling for health and agriculture—remain largely unexplored. This hesitation illustrates a broader reluctance to engage with the transformative power AI offers.
Detractors often cite ethical concerns—bias, privacy risks, and the threat to creativity—as reasons for delay. These concerns are valid, but they should not serve as excuses for inaction. Kogi must develop robust frameworks for ethical AI adoption rather than remain paralyzed by fear. In a world increasingly defined by technological advancement, hesitation is a luxury Kogi cannot afford.
The stakes are high. AI is not an optional tool; it is an imperative for the state’s relevance, competitiveness, and survival. Kogi’s leaders must act decisively—embracing innovation, investing in technology, and preparing their citizens for the digital frontier. The choice is stark: adapt to the future or risk irrelevance.
– Inah Boniface Ocholi writes from Ayah – Igalamela/Odolu LGA, Kogi state.
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