At the Art of Technology 6.0 conference in Lagos, Terrence Wu, the Managing Director of Huawei Nigeria Enterprise Business Group, raised concerns over the global shortage of Artificial Intelligence (AI) talents. He emphasized that this shortage is a significant barrier to the growth of digital economies, especially as demand for AI computing power is expected to surpass that of general computing power in the near future. Wu noted that AI talent is unevenly distributed across regions, creating challenges for global development, particularly in emerging economies.
Huawei’s Commitment to Nigeria’s Digital Transformation
Wu highlighted Huawei’s ongoing efforts to foster digital transformation in Nigeria. The company has been operating in the country for over 25 years, and its recent initiatives reflect a commitment to providing AI computing power and advanced digital solutions. One key development is the launch of Huawei’s local cloud service in Nigeria, which offers businesses, startups, and individuals access to over 240 digital solutions.
AI Innovations and Applications
Huawei has been actively contributing to AI-driven solutions across various industries. For instance, its AI weather model can predict global typhoon paths with high accuracy within just 10 seconds. Huawei has also collaborated with institutions like UNISA to develop AI-integrated smart campus systems that can automatically detect and resolve network faults, showcasing the vast potential of AI in improving efficiency and addressing critical needs.
Huawei’s Support for Digital Skills and Infrastructure in Nigeria
Huawei is deeply invested in improving digital literacy and training technology experts in Nigeria. Through initiatives like the DigiTruck program, the company aims to train 3,000 students annually across 10 Nigerian states, improving digital skills in underserved areas. Huawei also supports national initiatives such as the National Talent Export Programme (NATEP) and 3MTT program, aiming to build a robust pipeline of Nigerian technology talent for local, African, and global markets.
Furthermore, Huawei is collaborating with Nigeria’s Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to build a solar PV test facility, aligning with the country’s goals of fostering low-carbon development.
Global Collaboration for AI Talent Development
In response to the global AI talent shortage, Wu emphasized the need for global collaboration to bridge the talent gap. Huawei’s efforts are not only focused on technology solutions but also on nurturing a skilled workforce to meet the increasing demand for AI expertise.
Overall, Huawei’s commitment to Nigeria’s digital transformation underscores the importance of talent development, AI integration, and global partnerships in advancing digital economies across the continent.
