Nigeria Set to Pass Landmark AI Law

Nigeria is moving closer to becoming one of Africa’s first countries to formally regulate artificial intelligence, as lawmakers advance a comprehensive legal framework governing AI use across the digital economy.

The proposed law is expected to pass by March 2026, marking a major milestone in Africa’s approach to AI governance. If adopted, it will introduce binding rules to manage both the risks and opportunities created by artificial intelligence.

Stronger regulatory oversight

The AI provisions form part of the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill. The bill significantly expands the regulatory mandate of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

Under the framework, regulators would gain authority to request technical information, issue enforcement directives, and restrict or block AI systems deemed unsafe or harmful. As a result, oversight would extend across sectors using algorithms, digital platforms, and large-scale data systems.

Ethics, accountability and risk-based control

In addition, the bill promotes ethical AI development by prioritising fairness, accountability, and transparency. It introduces a risk-based regulatory model, allowing authorities to apply stricter controls to high-risk AI applications while maintaining flexibility for low-risk use cases.

Moreover, regulators would have the power to impose penalties on developers or users who fail to comply with the rules. This approach aims to discourage irresponsible AI deployment while improving public trust in emerging technologies.

Balancing innovation and protection

At the same time, lawmakers designed the legislation to support innovation. By creating clear legal standards, the bill seeks to protect startups and emerging technology firms while encouraging responsible AI development.

Consequently, Nigeria aims to build a safer and more predictable environment for investment in artificial intelligence, without slowing technological progress.

Regional leadership in AI governance

If passed, the law would position Nigeria at the forefront of AI regulation in Africa. While several African countries have adopted national AI strategies, few have established enforceable legal frameworks.

Therefore, Nigeria’s move could set a regulatory benchmark for other nations seeking to govern AI responsibly while strengthening their digital economies.