Nigeria: Transition to Artificial Intelligence Could Result in Job Losses for 20 Million Nigerians

The importance of taking proactive measures to mitigate potential disasters is universally acknowledged, whether it's safeguarding against natural calamities or addressing emerging challenges posed by technological advancements.

In the realm of AI technology, stakeholders have united in agreement to avoid the development of autonomous intelligent weapons. However, the impact of AI on human employment has sparked intense debate within the industry and research community. While proponents anticipate transformative changes, critics warn of significant job displacement due to automation.

I align with the perspective that substantial evidence supports job cuts resulting from AI adoption across various industries globally. Tasks that once required the efforts of multiple individuals can now be accomplished by a fraction of the workforce with the assistance of AI models. Take, for example, the field of coding. Traditionally, coding demanded extensive human labor to write complex instructions for computer operations, such as those enabling the functionality of messaging apps like WhatsApp.

The advent of AI-driven coding tools, such as Codex, has revolutionized the coding landscape. These tools streamline tasks that were previously labor-intensive, allowing for more efficient execution with fewer resources. With AI models for coding, programmers can now describe software requirements in plain language, prompting the AI to generate code automatically. While these AI-generated codes may require human review and correction, they significantly accelerate the coding process, reducing the need for large programming teams and expediting software development.

However, the widespread adoption of AI technologies in sectors like agriculture and logistics poses a considerable risk of job displacement. In Nigeria, where the agricultural sector employs millions of workers, the full integration of AI-driven machinery could potentially replace over 20 million jobs. Similarly, the implementation of AI systems at ports, like the hypothetical scenario at Apapa Port in Lagos, could lead to the displacement of thousands of workers currently employed in various roles.

The impact of AI on employment extends beyond national borders, as evidenced by global corporations like Amazon and Google. Amazon's deployment of robots has replaced over 100,000 workers, while Google's adoption of AI technologies resulted in the layoff of over 12,000 employees. Reports from AI Magazine indicate that AI technology was responsible for the elimination of over 200,000 roles across industries in 2023 alone. These layoffs underscore the significant and rapid impact of AI on employment worldwide.

The proliferation of AI-driven automation presents a pressing challenge for policymakers and industry leaders to address. While AI promises increased efficiency and productivity, its potential to disrupt labor markets necessitates proactive measures to mitigate adverse effects on employment. Strategies such as retraining and upskilling programs, job transition assistance, and the implementation of policies to ensure equitable distribution of AI-driven benefits are essential to navigate the evolving landscape of work in the age of AI.

In conclusion, the rise of AI technology presents both opportunities and challenges for the global workforce. While AI has the potential to enhance productivity and create new employment opportunities, its widespread adoption also poses risks of job displacement. As AI continues to reshape industries and labor markets, it is crucial for stakeholders to collaborate on solutions that promote inclusive growth and mitigate the negative impacts of automation on workers. By taking proactive measures to address these challenges, we can harness the transformative potential of AI while ensuring a more equitable and sustainable future for all.