The Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) hosted its much-anticipated Foreign Policy Lecture Series on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, bringing together scholars, diplomats, students, and policy stakeholders in Victoria Island for a timely discussion on artificial intelligence and diplomacy.
The lecture, titled “AI and Digital Diplomacy: Implications for Nigeria and Africa,” was delivered by Professor Olubukola S. Adesina of the Department of Political Science, University of Ibadan (UI), whose presentation sparked robust conversations on the future of Nigeria’s foreign policy in an increasingly digital world.
The NIIA Conference Chamber in Lagos, the venue of the event, was filled to the brim, reflecting growing interest in the intersection of technology and international relations.
Throughout the session, participants remained actively engaged with thoughtful questions and contributions that extended well beyond the formal presentation..
Adesina, the current Deputy Director (Admin), UI Distance Learning Centre (UIDLC), delivered a compelling analysis of how artificial intelligence is reshaping diplomatic practice, from data-driven decision-making to real-time communication and strategic influence.
In the Front, NIIA DG, Prof Eghosa Osaghae and Prof Olubukola Adesina in Group Photograph with NIIA Staff
She emphasised that Nigeria must move decisively to integrate AI into its diplomatic architecture or risk falling behind in global affairs.
A central theme of the lecture was the dual nature of AI: its immense potential to enhance governance and diplomacy, and the risks it poses if not properly regulated.
Discussions highlighted issues such as digital colonialism, digital sovereignty, cybersecurity, misinformation, and the widening technological gap between developed and developing nations.
Participants also explored how Nigeria can leverage AI to strengthen its leadership role in Africa, particularly by promoting regional cooperation and investing in local technological capacity.
What stood out most was not just the attendance, but the quality of engagement. The interactive session underscored a shared recognition that digital diplomacy is no longer a theoretical concept but an urgent policy priority.
The event reaffirmed the role of the NIIA as a leading platform for forward-looking policy dialogue, capable of convening diverse voices to address complex global challenges.
As conversations around artificial intelligence continue to shape international relations, Nigeria’s proactive engagement signals a willingness to adapt and lead.
The success of this lecture marks an important step in building a more digitally informed foreign policy framework, one that aligns with both national interests and continental aspirations.
If the energy and insights from today’s session are any indication, the future of AI-driven diplomacy in Nigeria and Africa is not only promising but already unfolding.
Earlier, the Institute Director, Professor Eghosa Osaghae, stressed how AI is shaping all sectors of the society and the world at large
He pointed out that Africa cannot afford to be left behind in the application of AI tools.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the event, Professor Femi Otubanjo noted that AI is a product of the fourth industrial revolution.
He lamented that African countries are mere consumers of technology rather than being producers, urging African nations to change the narrative of being consumers to that of producers.
