Abstract:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to drive sustainable development in Africa, especially
in Nigeria. In light of the growing importance of AI in global development, this paper explored its
role in promoting sustainable development in Nigeria. It analysed the interplay between
communication strategies and technology adoption. The study was hinged on Everett Rogers’
Diffusion of Innovation Theory. It adopted quantitative research method. The intentions of the
study were to determine the awareness level of Nigerians on the potentials and ability of artificial
intelligence to enhance sustainable development in Nigeria; to ascertain the level of usage of
artificial intelligence for sustainable development in Nigeria, and to identify the areas AI can be
deployed for sustainable development in Nigeria. Findings indicated a growing, but uneven
awareness of AI’s potential, while the usage level of AI for sustainable development in Nigeria is
abysmally low. The paper identified key areas AI can be deployed in Nigeria as security,
agriculture, education, engineering, economy, health, sports, and many more. The paper concluded
that AI has immense potential to accelerate sustainable development in Nigeria, but realising this
potential requires strategic efforts to raise awareness by the media, provide technical support, and
foster a conducive environment for innovation. It was recommended that the media should play a
leading role in creating awareness about the inevitability of AI in sustaining development at all
levels. Likewise, the level of usage of AI should be increased while AI should be utilised in areas
it has not been used hitherto