Despite growing concerns that Artificial Intelligence (AI) could worsen unemployment in Nigeria, a leading tech expert, Professor Abiodun Aibinu, has reassured the public that AI holds the key to job creation and economic transformation.
Professor Aibinu, a renowned Mechatronics Engineering scholar and Vice Chancellor of Summit University, Offa, made this known while speaking with journalists ahead of the IndabaX Nigeria 2025 Conference, a prestigious three-day event slated to hold at the university in Kwara State.
According to him, fears that AI will lead to mass job losses are misplaced. “AI will not eliminate jobs but will instead create new industries and professions that were previously unimaginable,” he said.
Describing AI as the “engine of the knowledge economy,” Aibinu noted that the technology will drive innovation, improve productivity, and unlock new opportunities across sectors such as commerce, education, agriculture, and national security.
Highlighting ongoing research initiatives, he revealed that his team is currently developing an AI-powered solution to tackle egg theft on small holder poultry farms, a widespread challenge that hampers local agricultural productivity.
“We’re leveraging AI surveillance and detection systems to support farmers. It’s a clear example of how AI can address real-life, community-specific problems,” he explained.
A specialist in AI and Machine Vision, Aibinu also emphasized how AI tools like drones and advanced vision systems can enhance Nigeria’s security by enabling remote monitoring, object tracking, and precision interventions.
“AI is the naked truth of our time. It is no longer the future, it is the present. And it is here to help,” he said.
On the upcoming IndabaX 2025 Conference, Aibinu noted that the event will focus on the democratization of knowledge, ethical AI practices, and localised tech-driven solutions. He disclosed that over 300 participants, including AI professionals, scholars, researchers, and tech entrepreneurs from across Africa, are expected to attend.
“This gathering is about building Africa’s future with African minds and solutions. More than 30 tertiary institutions will be represented, making it one of the largest AI-focused events on the continent,” he added.
Dr. Ahmed Olanrewaju, Chairperson of the IndabaX 2025 Steering Committee, described the conference as Africa’s premier platform for AI collaboration, policy engagement, and innovation exchange.
Also speaking, Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee, Mrs. Ganiyat Afolabi-Yusuf, said the event, which officially opened today, is designed to foster learning, problem-solving, and cross-sector networking.
“This is more than just a conference, it’s a laboratory for developing African solutions to African problems,” she concluded.
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