The European Union (EU) and Nigeria are enhancing collaboration in Artificial Intelligence (AI) research and innovation to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical technological solutions.
Speaking at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) International Week, Massimo De Luca, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, said both sides are finalizing a Science, Technology and Innovation Agreement to formalize cooperation between researchers, universities, and enterprises.
According to De Luca, the agreement will promote responsible AI applications that tackle societal challenges, improve productivity, and create inclusive opportunities. He also pointed to the Generative AI for Africa call for proposals, which closes on October 31, as an example of ongoing EU-funded initiatives encouraging cross-continental collaboration.
He added that the EU is working closely with Nigerian institutions, including the National Universities Commission, to boost local research capacity and global competitiveness.
UNILAG Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, commended the partnership, describing it as a model for equitable collaboration that benefits both regions. “Our researchers gain exposure to global networks and knowledge systems, driving innovation and institutional growth,” she said.
With the theme “Equitable Partnership and the Future of AI in Africa,” the dialogue highlighted the importance of fairness, ethics, and shared knowledge in shaping Africa’s AI future. Both the EU and Nigeria reaffirmed their commitment to building inclusive and human-centred innovation ecosystems.
