GEN Nigeria and Others Target Indigenous Firms with New Tech Fees

Empowering Nigerian Entrepreneurs with AI

Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN Nigeria), in collaboration with Fidelity Bank Plc and other organizations, has called on young entrepreneurs in Nigeria to embrace new technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), in their business operations. This initiative was highlighted during the Youth Entrepreneurship Dialogue, titled “Building the Future with AI: Technology, Talent, and Transformation Entrepreneurship,” which took place at the 2025 Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) in Lagos.

Dr. Olawale Anifowose, the Managing Director of GEN Nigeria, emphasized that AI has become essential for local enterprises in Nigeria to boost productivity, drive innovation, and enhance competitiveness. According to Anifowose, this can be achieved by automating tasks, personalizing customer experiences through data analysis, and enabling entrepreneurs to develop and scale new products and services more efficiently.

Enhancing Efficiency and Productivity

Anifowose pointed out that adopting AI can significantly improve efficiency and productivity by handling repetitive tasks, allowing employees to focus on more creative and strategic work. This shift not only boosts productivity but also empowers businesses to operate more effectively in a competitive market.

“When a local enterprise adopts AI, it can drive innovation and economic growth. For example, AI-powered solutions in fintech, healthcare, and agriculture are creating new opportunities for Nigerian entrepreneurs to innovate and address local needs,” he added.

The Importance of Embracing AI

The event’s guest speaker, Mr. Chibuike Aguene, CEO of Bildup AI, warned entrepreneurs about the risks of not embracing AI. He stated that we are entering an era of hybrid intelligence, where humans will augment their intelligence with AI. In this context, transformational entrepreneurship involves building intelligent systems that can adapt, learn, and evolve in real time.

Aguene emphasized that AI is not just a tool but a transformative force that can redefine how businesses operate and grow. By integrating AI into their strategies, entrepreneurs can stay ahead of the curve and create sustainable value.

Collaboration for Growth

Cynthia Ogbonna, the Head of Brand Management at Fidelity Bank Plc, explained that the decision to partner with the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of Pan-Atlantic University was aimed at providing a platform for like-minded individuals to discuss entrepreneurship, technology, and talent. This partnership seeks to foster collaboration and support the growth of enterprises, ultimately contributing to the development of the economy.

Key Takeaways from the Event

The dialogue highlighted several key points:

• AI as a Game-Changer: AI is no longer a luxury but a necessity for businesses looking to remain competitive and innovative.
• Focus on Talent: The integration of AI requires skilled professionals who can harness its potential and drive meaningful change.
• Collaboration and Partnerships: Working with educational institutions and other organizations can provide valuable resources and knowledge to support entrepreneurial ventures.

Looking Ahead

As Nigeria continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the digital age, the role of AI in entrepreneurship cannot be overstated. By leveraging AI technologies, Nigerian entrepreneurs can unlock new possibilities, drive economic growth, and contribute to the nation's development.

With the right strategies and support systems in place, the future of entrepreneurship in Nigeria looks promising. The message from the event is clear: embracing AI is not just an option but a critical step toward building a resilient and innovative economy.