Africa Called to Lead Global AI Rules, Not Just Follow

Nigerian official says continent must shape digital future, not just react to decisions made elsewhere

African countries have been told to stop playing catch-up on global technology rules and start leading the conversation instead.

The message came from Nigeria's top telecoms regulator at a major meeting in Abuja this week, where African nations gathered to plan their strategy for upcoming global talks on artificial intelligence, digital identity, and how to manage the airwaves that carry our phone signals.

The Big Picture:

Dr. Aminu Maida, who heads the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), told delegates that Africa's growing digital economy and young population mean the continent now has real muscle to influence international tech policies.

"Success won't come from showing up with big delegations," he said. "It will come from solid preparation, strong technical ideas, and speaking with one voice."

The two day meeting in Abuja is about getting African countries on the same page before two major global conferences later this year:

· The African Telecommunications Union's main gathering

· The ITU Plenipotentiary Conference in Doha, Qatar this November (where world leaders will make big decisions about the future of telecommunications)

Growing Influence:

John Omo, Secretary-General of the African Telecommunications Union, shared some good news: membership is growing.

· 49 to 52 member countries in the last four years

· 50 to 56 associate organizations

· A new category for universities now includes 18 African academic institutions

What's at Stake:

These meetings matter because they decide how technology develops globally. If Africa doesn't have a seat at the table and a strong voice, rules could be written that don't work for the continent's unique challenges and opportunities.

The message is clear: Africa can't afford to be a rule taker. It needs to be a rule maker.