EDC, eTranzact Highlights AI Readiness of Nigeria SMEs

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

A new report showing how small businesses in Nigeria are adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI) to scale up their operations has been released by the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of the Pan-Atlantic University in partnership with eTranzact International Plc.

The survey, titled Artificial Intelligence Readiness of Nigeria SMEs, explored where businesses in the Nigerian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) currently stand on the AI journey, including their readiness, their hurdles, and the incredible opportunities ahead.

It also made some recommendations, including tasking the government to prioritise and invest in locally relevant AI solutions, and also focus on affordable tools for SMEs.

The report called for the promotion of indigenous AI tools that are culturally sensitive and linguistically accessible, and recommended the development of AI –friendly policies, including tax incentives, simplified regulations, and data privacy safeguard.

The private sector was also charged to develop and offer affordable, user-friendly AI solutions tailored to SME needs and invest in AI skill training and capacity building through partnership and educational programmes.

At the unveiling of the study in Lagos, the Director of Programs and Partnerships at EDC, Dr Olawale Anifowose, said, “The AI readiness study reveals both challenges and opportunities, while awareness of AI technologies is growing, especially in information and communication technology (ICT) and creative sectors, overall adoption remain low, particularly in agriculture and fashion.”

“SMEs are drawn to affordable and user-friendly AI tools like Google, Maps, ChatGPT, and Google Assistant, but face significant barriers, including high implement costs, inadequate infrastructure and lack of technical expertise.

“Lack of local adaptation and acceptance, data privacy concerns and the absence of a supportive regulatory framework further hinder AI adoption,” he added.

He said, “At the EDC, Pan-Atlantic University, we’ve always championed the growth and resilience of SMEs. They are not just business- they are builders of livelihood, innovators, and job creators. And we believe that embracing emerging technologies like AI is no longer optional; it is essential.”

On his part, the chief executive of eTranzact, Mr Niyi Toluwalope, said, “As a superfintech enabling inclusive growth in Nigeria, we recognise the vital role SMEs play in driving economic development, employment, and innovation.”

“What emerged from the study is clear, while there is strong enthusiasm for AI-powered solutions, there is still a gap in awareness, access and contextual relevance.

‘The insight from this report offer a timely compass for policymakers, financial service providers, innovators, and SME leaders seeking to design the next ear of inclusive digital tools for Nigeria’s mostly informal SME sector,” he added.

At eTranzact, he said, “This is a not a research, it is a call to action. It affirms our resolve to co-create with the ecosystem, deploy intelligent solutions tailored for real-world business challenges, and continue investing in technologies and solutions that empower SMEs and businesses every day.”

It was learned that the study adopted a mixed-method research approach, involving the use of both quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis methods. The quantitative approach was implemented through a sample survey of SMEs with 5,290 responses across 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).