Senate Backs Plan to Establish Artificial Intelligence Centre in Ekiti
Comfort Chukwukelue
The Senate has thrown its weight behind a proposal to establish an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre in Omuo-Ekiti, Ekiti State, in a move aimed at positioning Nigeria as a major force in the global digital economy.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Yemi Adaramodu (Ekiti South), passed its second reading on Tuesday after a thorough debate on the Senate floor.
Senator Adaramodu explained that the centre would serve as a national hub for research, innovation, and development in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, including robotics, data science, and digital innovation.
He said the initiative would strengthen collaboration among the government, private sector, and academic institutions, while equipping young Nigerians with advanced digital skills for future jobs and entrepreneurship.
“Artificial intelligence, digital innovation, and advanced technologies now drive governance, commerce, education, healthcare, and national security,” Adaramodu said. “Nations that fail to invest strategically in these technologies risk being left behind in the 21st-century knowledge economy.”
According to him, the decision to locate the centre in Omuo-Ekiti was inspired by Ekiti State’s reputation as a centre of learning and intellectual development.
“Establishing this centre in Omuo-Ekiti will not only promote research and innovation but also stimulate economic growth across the South-West region and the nation at large,” he added.
Adaramodu noted that the centre would focus on developing homegrown digital solutions to address challenges in key sectors such as agriculture, health, education, and governance. He said it would also empower Nigerian youths to compete effectively in the global technology and AI ecosystem.
“Artificial intelligence is the new frontier of human progress,” he said. “This bill represents a significant step toward securing Nigeria’s place in the global technological landscape and aligns with our national goals of youth empowerment, job creation, and economic diversification.”
If passed into law, the proposed AI Centre in Omuo-Ekiti is expected to become a strategic platform for Nigeria’s digital transformation and a key driver of innovation-driven growth.
