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Nigeria’s online population is leading the global adoption of generative artificial intelligence, AI, with 70 percent of respondents reporting usage, far exceeding the global average of 48 percent.
This is according to a global survey by Paris-based research firm Ipsos in collaboration with Google.
The study, titled “Our Life with AI: From Innovation to Application,” surveyed 21,000 people across 21 countries. It revealed a growing global acceptance of AI, with 57 per cent of respondents expressing excitement about its potential compared to 43 percent who remain cautious.
Nigeria’s AI adoption at a glance
70% of the online population have used generative AI.
87% believe AI’s benefits outweigh its risks.
90% anticipate positive impacts in science and medicine.
81% foresee economic transformation driven by AI.
President of Global Affairs at Google & Alphabet, Kent Walker, noted:
“AI is starting to deliver magic at scale, making people’s lives easier and better. Today’s survey shows that the more people use these tools, the more excited they get about the possibilities and breakthroughs ahead.”
AI’s impact across sectors
*Science and medicine: 90% of Nigerian respondents see AI as pivotal in driving medical and scientific breakthroughs.
*Economic growth: 81% predict AI will foster innovation and create new economic opportunities.
*Personal and professional development: AI is recognized as a tool for enhancing productivity and access to resources.
Despite ongoing global debates on AI regulation, the Nigerian online population overwhelmingly supports pro-innovation policies, highlighting the country’s forward-thinking stance on technology.
Global trends in AI adoption
Comparative data shows a significant rise in global AI usage.
In October 2023, 38 percent of people reported using AI in the past 12 months, which increased to 48 percent by October 2024. Excitement about AI grew from 50 percent to 57 percent during the same period, while those who believe AI will positively impact the economy rose from 42 percent to 49 percent.
CEO of Ipsos, Ben Page, stressed the need for responsible AI development, adding, “As people use AI more, they better understand its transformative potential.”
The survey, conducted between September 17 and October 8, 2024, included 21,043 adults across 21 countries, with 1,000 respondents from Nigeria aged 18 and above.
