The South Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, Kim Pan-Kyu, has reiterated his country’s unwavering commitment to enhancing digitalisation in Nigeria.
The Nigerian Korean Information Access Centre, IAC, was officially inaugurated on Wednesday in Abuja. The centre aims to enhance digital literacy, foster innovation, and support research in artificial intelligence, big data, and cybersecurity.
He said the initiative funded by his country would help transform Nigeria’s digital potential into a reality, fostering digital literacy, innovation, and research.
The ambassador highlighted the importance of digital transformation for economic growth: “South Korea, advanced in technology and innovation, is ready to partner with Nigeria to harness its digital potential.”
Pan-kyu announced that young Nigerian talents will receive digital economy training.
Mr Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, expressed appreciation to the South Korean government for supporting Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, noting that the collaboration strengthens bilateral ties in technology advancement.
He also said that the centre would drive digital inclusion, ensuring all Nigerians, regardless of background, have access to ICT tools and skills.
The minister said the centre aligns with the national AI policy by fostering a culture of innovation, capacity building, and ethical AI practices.
Tijani also added that addressing critical areas like data labelling would enable the development of AI solutions tailored to local challenges.
Dr. NIA President Jong-Sung Hwang stated Nigeria was selected for the initiative due to its focus on AI development.
Dr Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), emphasised that the partnership with South Korea’s NIA would position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s digital economy, enhancing its global competitiveness.
NAN reports that IAC has state-of-the-art facilities, including computer labs, an AI development centre, a digital lounge, training rooms, a mobile IAC, and an electronic resource library, all crucial for Nigeria’s digital transformation.
NAN
