By Adaobi Rhema Oguejiofor
For decades, Nigeria’s greatest innovations have been born out of necessity. From noisy generators and metal charcoal pots, Nigerian technology has evolved. However, today, a new wave of technology is quietly spreading across the country and reshaping the way Nigerians live, work, and solve problems.
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming everyday life, offering solutions across various sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, finance, and education.
Some areas where this technology is growing include:
The Smart and Green Solutions
In recent years, Nigeria has adopted the small but powerful innovations that help make things easy. For instance, in cities like Lagos, sensors help reduce traffic. Also, at night, newly installed solar-powered smart streetlights in towns like Lekki and Ikeja detect movement and brighten up to improve visibility and safety. People may not notice the technology yet, but they do notice the difference it brings.
Healthcare
Nigeria’s healthcare system has long struggled with overcrowded hospitals and a shortage of specialists. But innovations are stepping in to make the system more effective. AI-powered diagnostic tools are now being utilised in several teaching hospitals to aid in the rapid detection of diseases such as tuberculosis and lung infections. Telemedicine platforms like Remedial Health, Kangpe, and Mobihealth allow Nigerians to speak with doctors through video calls. This is something that became vital during the pandemic and still helps people in remote areas receive expert care without travelling.
Agritechnology
Nigeria’s farmers are embracing technology faster than anticipated. Startup agribusinesses like Farmcrowdy, EdenLife Agro, and Hello Tractor are helping farmers access financing, modern equipment, and data-driven farming techniques. Drones now survey farmlands in states like Kaduna, Benue, and Oyo to detect pests, measure crop health, and increase yields. With soil sensors, farmers can know what nutrients their land needs to grow certain crops. Now, small time farmers who once relied only on traditional farming have begun embracing innovation, thereby improving productivity.
Fintech
This is the sector that has been most influenced by technology and innovation in Nigeria. Millions of Nigerians now use apps like OPay, PalmPay, Kuda, Moniepoint, Piggyvest, and Flutterwave-powered platforms to transfer money instantly, save securely, and run businesses without stepping into a bank.
E-wallets have become the new normal for some okada riders, food vendors, market women and practically all small-scale businesses. These innovations have eased long bank queues and unproductive time.
Robotics and Local Innovation
Nigerian youths are pushing boundaries in surprising ways. Students from universities like UNILAG, FUTA, and Covenant University have built locally made robots that can assist in manufacturing, surveillance, and even simple caregiving tasks.
Local innovators have also created drones for security monitoring and 3D-printed prosthetic limbs for amputees at a fraction of the traditional cost.
Sustainable Tech
The national grid seems to be struggling; solar innovation is booming. Companies like Lumos, Arnergy, and Bboxx are providing solar home systems to families who once relied solely on generators.
In states like Kaduna and Abuja, smart mini-grids now power rural homes using renewable energy. Waste-to-energy projects are emerging in Lagos, turning refuse into electricity. These technologies are practical solutions for everyday survival.
A New Nigeria Emerging Quietly
Nigeria’s technological revolution is unique because it doesn’t announce itself; rather, it slips into daily life, making things easier and work faster.
Even though there may still be challenges facing the nation, from power to infrastructure, innovations surrounding major areas are proving that progress does not always wait for perfect conditions. Sometimes, it grows despite them.
Across the country, technology is reshaping society one small step at a time. And although it may not always look futuristic, this quiet transformation is building the foundation for the Nigeria of tomorrow.
