Nigeria: Minister Musawa says AI critical to economic growth
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria
Nigeria’s Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has emphasized that technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), will play a defining role in shaping the nation’s future. Speaking at the fourth edition of the Cavista Technologies Hackathon, Musawa commended the initiative for creating a platform where young Nigerians are building practical solutions to real-world problems.
“The Ministry recognizes the vital role technology plays in unlocking possibilities across storytelling, digital content development, and the broader creative sector,” she said. According to her, initiatives that place AI in the hands of young innovators are strategic investments in Nigeria’s economic future.
The hackathon, themed “From Data to Prevention: AI as Your Health Partner,” attracted over 200 students from leading tertiary institutions in Lagos State. Team ByteBros from Lagos State University emerged as the overall winner, clinching the N2 million grand prize for leveraging AI to shift from reactive treatment to preventive care in healthcare.
Cavista Technologies’ General Manager, Oyebola Morakinyo, underscored the urgency of innovation, stating, “In a world where technology evolves almost at the speed of light, hackathons remind us why pushing boundaries matters.” The event provided participants with mentorship opportunities, industry exposure, and potential collaboration pathways.
The Minister’s remarks reinforced the message that Nigeria’s creative ambitions and technological advancement are inseparable. The hackathon demonstrated that AI is becoming a practical tool in the hands of Nigerian youth, transforming healthcare, strengthening the creative economy, and redefining the country’s digital future.
