NITDA deploys AI to turn Nigerian youths’ ideas into policy proposals

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is set to harness artificial intelligence to harness the ideas of Nigerian youths and transform them into policy proposals. At the inaugural National Youth Conference in Abuja, NITDA Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, declared that young Nigerians represent a strategic resource for national progress.

Inuwa explained that AI and digital platforms would help the government distinguish genuine policy ideas from misinformation and online noise, which is prevalent on social media platforms such as X, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. He stated that the conference will serve as a structured method to identify the issues and aspirations that require policy attention.

NITDA will collaborate with the relevant ministry to capture contributions from participants, while AI will organize and analyze the submissions into thematic categories. The analysis would then be presented to a committee for assessment and policy proposal development. Inuwa also highlighted that the technology-driven engagement would enable young Nigerians who cannot attend the conference physically to contribute remotely.

He pledged NITDA's continued involvement, ensuring transparency and openness in the process. The National Youth Conference 2026, announced by President Bola Tinubu two years ago, aims to address the diverse challenges and opportunities faced by young Nigerians. Scheduled to last 30 days, the conference will bring together young people nationwide to collaboratively develop solutions to issues such as education, employment, innovation, security, and social justice.

The conference is divided into six broad areas, with virtual sessions held across six geopolitical zones from October 5 to 17, 2026.