At the University of Lagos (UNILAG), the AI & Robotics Lab (AIRLAB) is achieving impressive results despite working with limited resources. The lab focuses on teaching robotics, training talent, conducting research, and chasing grants, all while government support for such initiatives remains minimal.
Leadership and Vision
The lab is led by Dr. Chika Yinka-Banjo, who completed her Ph.D. in computer science at Stellenbosch University in South Africa. She returned to Nigeria to establish AIRLAB with initial funding from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Canada. Her goal was to create a space for research and training in AI and robotics that could grow local talent and support innovation.
Working With Limited Resources
AIRLAB receives some support from international partners, such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), which helped fund NaijaCoder, an intensive program for secondary school students in Lagos. Other partners include Reach Robotics, NIBSS PLC, and CWG PLC. Despite this support, the lab often has to do “more with less,” balancing ambitious research goals with constrained funding.
Training the Next Generation
A key focus of AIRLAB is training students. The lab runs free summer programs for teenagers, teaching robotics and AI skills to prepare them for future careers in technology. These programs have successfully introduced many young Nigerians to AI and robotics, helping to develop local talent for the growing technology sector.
Nigeria’s AI Strategy vs. Real-World Labs
Nigeria has launched a National AI Strategy to support AI innovation. It includes initiatives like the AI Startup Fund and Nigeria AI Collective. However, these initiatives have yet to provide substantial support to labs like AIRLAB. Experts, including Dr. Yinka-Banjo, have called for an AI policy for education, funding for research, and programs to grow AI skills nationwide.
Moving Forward
Despite the challenges, AIRLAB continues to grow its research, train students, and apply for grants. Increased government support could amplify the lab’s impact, helping Nigeria become a leader in AI research and development in Africa.
For more information, visit the AI & Robotics Lab at UNILAG and watch the UNILAG & UNDP panel discussion on Artificial Intelligence.