Nosike Nwigene: From flunking medicine to shaping Africa’s AI policy

Nosike Nwigene's path from medicine to shaping Africa's AI policy began in Lagos, Nigeria, where he was expected to follow in his father's footsteps as a doctor. Growing up, reading and writing were integral to his family life, but despite his father's encouragement, Nwigene's passion lay elsewhere. After failing to gain admission into his desired medical school, he switched to Industrial Chemistry and graduated in 2012.

During this time, Nwigene discovered a talent for writing, marketing, and event organization, skills that later became valuable in his career. A friend connected him with InsiderPR, a global public relations firm focused on startups in emerging markets. In April 2019, Nwigene joined the firm as a digital engagement specialist, developing brand stories, managing social platforms, ghostwriting, and supporting client communications and marketing teams.

His work with tech startups and venture capital firms exposed him to a rapidly changing tech ecosystem, which led him to volunteer with the Nigeria Startup Bill. This non-governmental effort aimed to create a legal framework for the burgeoning tech sector. Nwigene worked on advocacy materials, appeared on national television, and engaged with state governments to support the Bill's adoption.

His efforts were recognized when he received a commendation letter from the Office of the President, one of the proudest moments of his career. Nwigene's journey highlights the importance of curiosity and adaptability in finding one's path, as he shifted from medicine to technology policy advocacy, ultimately contributing to shaping Africa's AI policy.