By Justus Adetomiwa
The Ondo State Government has unveiled its vision of harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to transform governance, economic productivity, and social inclusion across the state.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Ondo State Artificial Intelligence Adoption Summit 2025, held in Akure on Monday, the State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa represented by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun described technology as a driving force for development and assured that the state government would continue to invest in digital infrastructure and human capital development to achieve its innovation goals.
“AI is no longer a distant dream; it is a powerful tool that is already transforming governance around the world,” the governor stated. “Our future lies in using AI responsibly to enhance service delivery, boost productivity, and build an inclusive and innovative society.”
The governor urged all stakeholders to embrace AI responsibly, emphasising inclusivity and transparency in implementation.
“This journey is not about replacing humans,” he said. “It is about amplifying human potential, creating jobs, and building a culture of innovation that secures the future of our people.”
The two-day summit, themed “Driving Governance Efficiency and Inclusive Development Through Responsible AI Adoption,” is an initiative of the Ondo State Information Technology Agency (SITA) in partnership with key stakeholders from the public and private sectors, academia, and civil society.
In his welcome address, SITA Chairman, Mr. Tomide Akinribido, described the summit as a decisive step in the state’s digital transformation journey, adding that Ondo aims to become a front-runner in sub-Saharan Africa’s AI revolution.
“We are not merely discussing technology,” Akinribido said. “We are shaping the state’s position in the Fourth Industrial Revolution — from public administration to agriculture, education, and health care. The goal is simple: to make Ondo State not just a consumer but a creator of technology.”
The keynote lecture, delivered by the Executive Director of Promad Infotech Foundation, Daisi Omokungbe explored strategies and frameworks for AI adoption in the public sector.
The speaker emphasised that AI, if deployed ethically and strategically, could drive transparency, accountability, and efficiency in governance.
“With responsible AI integration, public servants can automate repetitive tasks, improve decision-making, and focus on higher-value problem-solving,” the keynote speaker noted. “Ondo State stands at the threshold of becoming Nigeria’s model for AI-driven governance.”
Omokungbe called for a three-phase strategy focused on capacity building, scalable pilot projects, and inclusive stakeholder participation. He proposed that the state should train at least 2,500 civil servants in AI applications by 2027 as part of its adoption plan
According to him, artificial intelligence could enhance project monitoring, detect financial anomalies, and support sectors like agriculture, health, education, and transport.
Throughout the summit, participants including policymakers, tech entrepreneurs, youth innovators, and representatives of academia will engage in technical sessions and panel discussions on AI ethics, cybersecurity, e-governance, digital economy frameworks, and skills development.
The summit continues with breakout sessions and exhibitions showcasing AI-driven solutions for public service, agriculture, and education.
Dignitaries present at the event include, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr Seun Osamaye, Commisioner for Information and Orientation, Mr Idowu Ajanaku and Permanent Secretary of SITA, Dr. Folukemi Aladenola