Interswitch Group, one of Africa’s leading
integrated payments and digital commerce companies, has emphasised the critical
role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of work and the
digital economy. Franklin
Ali, Group Chief Human Resources Officer, Interswitch, shared these insights during the InnovateAI
Conference Lagos 2025, recently held at the Landmark Centre, Victoria Island,
Lagos. Interswitch participated as a Platinum Sponsor for the second
consecutive year, reinforcing its commitment to advancing AI-driven innovation
across Africa.
Themed “Scaling
AI Adoption in Nigeria: Catalysing Cross-Sectoral Innovation and Fostering
Inclusive Growth,” the conference brought together AI enthusiasts,
industry experts, scholars, and innovators and provided a platform for
knowledge exchange, thought-provoking discussions, and hands-on learning
sessions. These sessions aimed to accelerate AI adoption across key industries,
including fintech, financial services, public services, and oil and gas, to
boost operational efficiency and drive economic growth.
During a panel session titled “AI & The
Future of Work in Nigeria,” Ali highlighted the urgent need for young
professionals to embrace AI skills, mindset shifts, and continuous learning to
stay relevant in an increasingly automated world.
“The AI economy is a gateway to the knowledge economy,
and it is imperative that we embrace this shift,” Franklin stated. “While AI adoption in
leading economies like America and China remains below 50 per cent, these
nations are at the forefront of AI advancements. To compete globally, Nigeria
must prioritise reskilling and upskilling its workforce, fostering a mindset
shift, and equipping professionals with core and enabling skills such as data
literacy, JavaScript, and other technical competencies.”
He also emphasised the importance of targeted learning
and problem-solving:
“AI is not just a buzzword; it is a tool for solving
real-world problems. For instance, traffic congestion in Lagos is a challenge
that can be addressed through AI-driven solutions. However, adept use of AI
technology requires a deep understanding of core tech skills in areas like
natural language processing, robotics, and machine learning. We must learn AI
not for the sake of it but to solve specific problems that impact our society
and economy.”
Ali further encouraged young professionals to seize
opportunities in the tech industry, noting its significant financial rewards
and career growth potential. He also challenged the misconception that AI is
exclusive to tech fields, urging professionals across all industries to embrace
digital transformation or risk obsolescence.
He pointed out that while AI could lead to job
displacement for those unwilling to adapt, whilst presenting new opportunities
for those equipped with relevant skills. One of the standout segments at the
event, the Innovation Showcase, spotlighted groundbreaking AI-driven
solutions tailored to Nigeria’s unique challenges, further reinforcing the role
of AI in transforming key sectors.
Interswitch’s sponsorship of the InnovateAI Conference
Lagos 2025 underscores the company’s steadfast commitment to advancing
technology and its applications, including AI, to drive financial inclusion and
digital transformation. By collaborating with key stakeholders and fostering
industry-wide conversations, Interswitch aims to drive AI-powered innovation
that will propel Nigeria’s digital economy forward.
As a pioneer in Africa’s fintech space, Interswitch
remains dedicated to championing initiatives that harness technology’s
transformative potential to unlock new opportunities, stimulate economic
growth, and elevate user experiences. As the conversation around AI continues
to gain momentum, Interswitch remains fully invested in shaping its future and
accelerating its integration into Africa’s dynamic digital landscape.
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