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25 March 2025
The Presidential Office of Digital Engagement and Strategy (PODES) in Nigeria has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Cyberpedia Internet Governance to launch an initiative aimed at enhancing informed civic engagement through the use of artificial intelligence (AI).
This collaboration, led by Otega Ogra, head of PODES and senior special assistant to the president, is designed to "reimagine civic communication" across the nation. Ogra emphasized that the initiative is focused on empowering Nigerians to engage in informed discussions rather than controlling narratives.
“In today’s digital age, trust is paramount. By equipping citizens with the right tools, we aim to build transparency and strengthen public trust,” said Ogra.
The initiative will tackle two primary areas: real-time public sentiment mapping and grassroots empowerment. By leveraging advanced AI tools, the partnership plans to analyse public sentiment throughout Nigeria's diverse linguistic and cultural landscape, which poses unique challenges due to the presence of over 400 languages. Ogra highlighted the importance of understanding these sentiments for effective communication.
Additionally, the initiative aims to work alongside local influencers, community leaders, and cultural ambassadors to co-create content that resonates with the public. This content will promote national values, counter misinformation, and encourage constructive dialogue among citizens.
"This initiative transcends Nigeria,” said Abiodun Sowemimo, president of Cyberpedia. “It demonstrates how democracies can ethically harness technology to enhance citizen participation while upholding democratic principles.”
The collaboration will also introduce digital literacy programs, including mobile applications and gamified educational experiences, designed to help Nigerians identify manipulated content, fake news, and deep fake technology.
“These tools are designed to proactively combat misinformation and foster a more informed citizenry,” said Sowemimo. “Given the rise of misinformation exacerbated by emerging technologies, this initiative emerges at a critical time. With one of the youngest populations in Africa and a vibrant digital ecosystem, Nigeria is uniquely positioned to develop scalable solutions that could establish new global benchmarks for digital engagement and public trust.”
