FG Intensifies Push for AI-Driven Foreign Policy to Boost Nigeria’s Global Digital Influence

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into Nigeria’s foreign policy as part of efforts to strengthen digital diplomacy, modernise diplomatic engagement and position the country as a leading voice in global digital governance.

The commitment was reiterated at a seminar on digital diplomacy, where senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted the growing importance of emerging technologies in shaping international relations and advancing Nigeria’s strategic interests.

Speaking at the opening of the seminar, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Janet Olisa Enikanolaiye, urged participants to use the forum to develop practical recommendations that would strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic capacity in an increasingly technology-driven world.

She said the outcome of the discussions should provide actionable strategies for modernising the country’s foreign policy architecture, enhancing diplomatic engagement and expanding Nigeria’s influence in regional and global digital governance.

According to Enikanolaiye, the Ministry is committed to building a digitally competent Foreign Service capable of responding effectively to emerging global challenges and opportunities presented by rapid technological advancement.

She expressed confidence that the seminar would contribute significantly to shaping a more innovative and responsive foreign policy that leverages digital tools and artificial intelligence to advance Nigeria’s national interests.

The Permanent Secretary also commended the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, for championing reforms aimed at repositioning the Ministry to meet the demands of an evolving global diplomatic landscape.

She noted that the Minister’s reform agenda is focused on equipping Nigeria’s diplomatic workforce with the skills and digital capabilities required to navigate contemporary international relations.

Enikanolaiye further appreciated the British High Commission in Abuja for partnering with the Ministry to organise the seminar, describing the collaboration as a demonstration of the value of international partnerships in promoting innovation, knowledge exchange and institutional capacity building.

She said the partnership would further strengthen bilateral cooperation while supporting Nigeria’s efforts to harness digital technologies for effective diplomacy.

Declaring the seminar open, Enikanolaiye reaffirmed the Ministry’s resolve to deepen digital transformation across Nigeria’s Foreign Service, stressing that embracing artificial intelligence and digital diplomacy is essential to enhancing the country’s visibility, competitiveness and leadership in global affairs.

She added that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s broader objective of leveraging emerging technologies to improve governance, strengthen international engagement and position Nigeria as a key player in the evolving digital economy.