Nigeria is moving closer to becoming one of the first African countries to formally regulate artificial intelligence (AI) with a new legislative proposal before the National Assembly. The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to Ensure Proper Control of the Usage of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technology in Nigeria and for Related Matters, 2023,” seeks to introduce a structured framework for the registration, licensing, and supervision of AI technologies across the country.
If passed, the bill will establish a National Artificial Intelligence Council (NAIC), which will be responsible for overseeing the development, deployment, and application of AI. The council will serve as the main regulatory body, setting operational standards for public and private sector use and ensuring that AI systems meet ethical, safety, and transparency requirements.
The proposed law outlines that all AI developers, operators, or companies using AI in Nigeria must be registered and licensed by the council. This includes both local innovators and foreign technology firms offering AI solutions within Nigeria’s digital ecosystem. The NAIC will also have the authority to monitor compliance, evaluate risks associated with AI systems, and issue penalties for violations.
The bill defines certain AI applications as high-risk, including those used in sensitive sectors such as defence, healthcare, finance, and governance. Operators in these areas would be required to conduct risk assessments and submit periodic compliance reports to the council. The measure is designed to ensure that automated systems do not cause harm or breach existing laws governing privacy, data protection, and cybersecurity.
Nigeria’s AI bill comes at a time when the country is witnessing a sharp increase in the adoption of machine learning tools, chatbots, and automation platforms across fintech, education, logistics, and public services. As AI continues to integrate into everyday systems, lawmakers are seeking to build a clear legal foundation to guide its responsible growth.
The bill also complements the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) of 2023, ensuring that AI operators adhere to data privacy rules when processing personal or sensitive information. Under the proposal, the NAIC would collaborate with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and other relevant agencies to maintain uniform standards.
In addition, the bill extends to international AI companies whose tools are used in Nigeria. Such companies will be required to register locally before deploying or selling their AI products in the Nigerian market.
Although the proposed legislation is still under review, it represents a major step in how Nigeria plans to shape its digital economy and maintain oversight of emerging technologies. Once passed, it will provide a legal pathway for innovation while ensuring accountability and transparency in the country’s growing AI sector.
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