The exotic premises of Sheraton Hotels, Ikeja, Lagos, was intellectually transformed into a scholarly Mecca of sorts when erudite personalities from international and ďiffering Nigerian geo-political lòcations, converged on Thursday 19th November, 2024, for the much anticipated annual 12th Anniversary Lecture of Realnews, a standout general interest magazine, with the general aim of addressing numerous challenges plaguing Africa in this modern day era of artificial intelligence and technological advancements.
The theme of this year’s milestone edition was titled “Africa in World-Shifting Geopolitics: Matters Arising on Demography, Technology, Artificial Intelligence, and Natural Resources.”
In her opening remarks, Maureen Chigbo, the publisher of Realnews Magazine, highlighted the critical role of investigative, robust, and excellent journalism in navigating these complex issues.
Special guest discussant, Bala Hadiza, Special Adviser on Policy Coordination to President Bola Tinubu, delivered her address virtually. She emphasized Africa’s demographic advantage, calling it a significant asset:
“We recognize the need for a broader understanding of innovation and artificial intelligence. Africa must chart its own course, defining what it wants from international partners while taking the lead in determining its needs and priorities.
“We must also address the challenges surrounding the availability of natural resources within the continent and their relevance to Nigeria and the larger African states.”
A keynote speaker who flew in specifically for the event was Dr. Karim El Aynaoui; the President of the Policy Center for the New South, and Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences and Executive Vice-President of the Mohammed VI Polytechnic. Dr. Karim El Aynaoui also worked at the Central Bank of Morocco as the Director of Economics, Statistics and International Relations. While addressing the erudite gathering, Dr.Anyaouì shared compelling insights which could be individually summed thus:
Africa is at the nexus of profound global transformations, driven by four critical forces—demography, technology, artificial intelligence, and natural resources and these forces hold tremendous promise for Africa’s development while presenting her with challenges that demand strategic action. Africa, being the youngest continent, with over 60% of its population under the age of 25, positions her as a future economic powerhouse, providing a youthful labor force and a burgeoning consumer market. investing in quality education, healthcare, and skills development will ensure that this vibrant population is empowered to drive innovation, productivity, and inclusive growth.
For Africa to thrive in this digital era, we must prioritize infrastructure development, foster digital literacy, and create enabling environments for startups. Collaboration between governments, private sectors, and international partners will be essential to harness technology as a tool for progress.
Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, from healthcare and agriculture to finance and governance. To be active participants in this revolution, African nations must invest in AI research, establish ethical frameworks, and ensure representation in global discussions on AI governance.
Africa, being already endowed with immense natural resources, from vast mineral deposits to fertile land and renewable energy potential, we need to embrace sustainable resource management, value addition through industrialization, and fair trade practices. By fostering transparency and prioritizing local beneficiation, we can ensure that Africa’s wealth benefits its people and contributes to global
In the context of world-shifting geopolitics, Africa must assert itself as a strategic player. The competition between global powers—be it for critical minerals, market access, or geopolitical influence—presents both opportunities and risks. Africa must approach these dynamics with unity and strategic foresight, leveraging institutions like the African Union to negotiate collectively and secure favorable terms.Moreover, partnerships must be redefined. Africa must move beyond dependency and embrace relationships based on mutual respect and shared goals.
Another keynote speaker, Engineer Shehu Tijjani, a technologist and innovator, highlighted Africa’s critical role in the evolving global landscape. He stressed the importance of harnessing the continent’s potential by identifying and producing the raw materials it requires.
According to Tijjani, as the world transitions with advancements in technology and artificial intelligence, African countries must adapt and transform by focusing on self-sufficiency and producing what they consume.
The lecture underscored the urgency for Africa to harness its potential in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
His Excellency Ambassador Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, a distinguished Nigerian academic and diplomat, delivered a keynote address at the event. In his speech, he emphasized the need for a “new world order” that is collaboratively designed, created, and implemented.
Another prominent highlight moment of the event was when the chairperson, Ms Beatrice Eyong, country representative UN women, Nigeria,was inducted into the most coveted Real News Hall of Fame.
The list of heavyweights of the corporate, telecommunications, finance and technology world who graced the Lecture, amongst others, included Aminu Maida, Managing Director of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), who was represented by Reuben Mouka, Director of Public Affairs, Felix Obiamalu, Associate Director of the National Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) and Kayode Adedayo, Director of Proceeds of Crime Department at the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Speaking to DASCENARIO correspondents at the event, Ms. Chigbo shared the inspiration behind the theme. She stated:
“The world is shifting. Politics is shifting. Geopolitics is shifting. People need to understand the variables influencing society, such as AI and technology. Whatever happens elsewhere affects Africa, so we must be conscious of global developments and find ways to align them with Africa’s growth.”
