Unlocking Nigeria’s Future: Harnessing AI to Combat the Climate Crisis

By: Tarinabo William

Climate change is hitting Nigeria hard. From the flooded fields in Bayelsa to the dry lands in Sokoto, the impacts are real and severe. Floods destroy homes, droughts threaten food supplies, and coastal erosion forces people to leave their neighborhoods. These extreme weather events are now a matter of national concern. Unfortunately, Nigeria’s response is outdated and disorganized.

Recently, experts like Okes Imoni and Ugochukwu Charles Akajiaku have highlighted some of these issues. In interviews, they stressed the need for a partnership between the government and citizens to tackle climate change effectively. Akajiaku pointed out that artificial intelligence (AI) should play a key role in Nigeria’s climate strategy, enabling better environmental management.

While many in Nigeria associate AI mainly with finance or marketing, its potential for climate resilience is clear. According to geologist Becky Peremoboere Bamiekumo and climate advocate Prince Chukwuemeka, AI can help us track oil spills, assess vegetation loss, and predict urban heat trends. They suggest that if Nigeria leverages its scientific talent and digital tools, we can make significant progress. However, a lack of coordination and investment is holding us back.

A recent report by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) revealed that the devastating floods of 2022 displaced over 2.5 million people and cost the economy over ₦1.5 trillion. This underlines the need for proactive solutions. AI could help by predicting disasters and giving us the foresight to act before it’s too late.

One important area is early-warning systems. We can use AI to analyze weather data and satellite images for better predictions. Countries like Bangladesh have successfully implemented such systems to mitigate disasters. Nigeria needs this kind of foresight to save lives and resources.

Another opportunity lies in agriculture. AI can provide farmers with real-time advice on when to plant and irrigate. Similar platforms have thrived in countries like Kenya and India, helping farmers boost their yields. Given that over 70% of Nigerians rely on farming, these tools could be game-changers.

Beyond technology, community involvement is crucial. Initiatives should focus on teaching citizens about climate issues through workshops and school programs. AI should not just be for big companies; it needs to be part of daily life for regular Nigerians.

For these strategies to succeed, Nigeria needs a clear, national AI-for-climate action plan. This should align with existing climate policies and outline the roles for key agencies like the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Ministry of Environment. Such a plan must emphasize data sharing and foster public-private partnerships while ensuring ethical AI use.

Fortunately, there are positive developments. Organizations like Data Science Nigeria are training young Nigerians in AI applications spanning agriculture and sustainability. Universities are incorporating AI into their programs, helping to build a knowledge base. These efforts are vital but need to be expanded and integrated.

It’s equally important to prioritize equity in climate solutions. Vulnerable groups such as rural women and small farmers often suffer the most from climate change. Any AI solution must consider their needs, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity through local languages and community-driven data.

However, it’s also important to temper expectations. AI isn’t a cure-all. It should work hand-in-hand with sound policies and expert guidance. Transparency and community involvement must remain a priority in deploying AI technologies.

The climate crisis is advancing rapidly. The United Nations estimates that Nigeria faces losses of over ₦2 trillion every year due to climate impacts. Without innovation, this will only worsen. AI isn’t just about keeping up with global trends; it’s about protecting our ecosystems and securing our economic future.

Nigeria has the talent and the urgency needed to take action. The question now is whether we can adopt AI wisely, inclusively, and urgently. The stakes are high. It’s time for Nigeria to embrace AI as a vital part of its climate strategy.

Tarinabo William, geophysicist and data scientist, writes from Port Harcourt.

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