By: Demola Okeowo
Before modern technology, one could wonder about life as it was lived and how people survived. Upon reflection, the answer is clear: the technology has been around for a long time. Humans have always used tools, techniques, and knowledge to solve problems, even in earlier eras. However, today’s technological advancements are breathtaking and many feats once considered unattainable by those of previous generations are now reality.
The 20th century ushered in modern technology with revolutionary inventions in computing, telecommunications, and manufacturing, further accelerated by World War II, which spurred rapid advances like the transistor in 1947, radar, and sophisticated computing devices, ultimately leading to the Internet. Modern technology has developed in stages, from the mechanical innovations of the late 19th and early 20th centuries to the current era of data and artificial intelligence (AI). These phases gave rise to inventions such as mechanical calculators, electronic power systems, digital computers, and ultimately AI, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT), all of which highlight the need for cybersecurity. Today, modern technology is deeply integrated into all aspects of life, including information, communication, healthcare, climate sustainability and manufacturing.
Two critical and recent forms of modern technology are artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity. AI focuses on simulating human intelligence through machine learning, natural language processing and automation, while cybersecurity aims to protect systems, networks and data against attacks in digital space. Despite the growing impact of AI on sectors such as healthcare, finance, virtual assistants (e.g. Siri and Alexa), industrial and mechanical automation, our lives remain highly vulnerable to digital threats. Therefore, cybersecurity tools and practices, such as firewalls, threat detection, and encryption, are essential to our security.
The field of artificial intelligence (AI), which began in the 1950s with pioneers like Alan Turing and John McCarthy, initially focused on human-like reasoning tasks but suffered setbacks in the 1950s. 1970s and 1980s due to technological limitations. At the same time, cybersecurity emerged in the 1970s with the first protocols, and in the 1980s, standards were established to counter threats such as viruses, whose importance grew with the rise of ‘Internet.
Africa’s digital transformation, led by countries like South Africa and Kenya, accelerated in the late 1990s, leading to widespread adoption of digital banking services and the need for enhanced cybersecurity. In the 2010s, African countries, particularly Nigeria, began integrating “hypermodern” technologies in fintech, healthcare, and agriculture, with initiatives like M-Pesa and Nigerian startups like LifeBank having a social impact. However, this growth has also led to an increase in cyber threats, prompting government policies and educational initiatives in AI and cybersecurity to help secure the continent’s digital infrastructure. Despite the challenges, many are still eager to leverage these technologies to solve global problems.
Dr. Bosun Tijani is a key figure in the Nigerian technology landscape, known for his contributions to AI and cybersecurity. As CEO and co-founder of Co-Creation Hub (CcHub), Tijani has built an ecosystem of support for technology innovation, accelerating AI and digital security in Nigeria and beyond. Through CcHub, it fosters partnerships with global technology companies and academic institutions, promoting AI research and encouraging African technology talent. On cybersecurity, Tijani advocates for robust systems and skilled professionals to protect Nigeria’s digital infrastructure amid rapid digital transformation. His advocacy for policy reforms, support for AI startups, and focus on secure platforms have positioned Nigeria as a leader in technological innovation, inspiring the next generation and shaping a future where AI and Cybersecurity will drive Nigeria’s development.
Orjinta Nnaemeka Orji, born in Enugu, Nigeria in 1978, is a leading AI and cybersecurity expert based in the United States. With a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, a master’s degree in information systems management and ongoing doctoral studies in information technology, he has over 20 years of experience in IT and is director of infrastructure and cloud architecture at Kyndryl Security & Resiliency Practice. Orji co-founded NEXTGENAI LTD, with the aim of revolutionizing African industries through AI solutions in sectors such as finance, healthcare, agriculture and security. Known for his work with Fortune 500 companies, he is a recognized leader in cyber resilience. Married with five children, he balances his career with personal interests in football, cinema and service as a Knight of St. Christopher.
Professor Ndubuisi Ekekwe is a leading expert in AI and cybersecurity, widely respected for his contributions to the advancement of technological solutions across Africa. With a strong engineering background, he has played a pivotal role in developing AI-based systems and resilient cybersecurity frameworks tailored to the needs of the continent. Its research and consultancy work spans key sectors such as finance, healthcare and education, influencing policy and shaping technology adoption strategies in the public and private sectors. Professor Ekekwe is also a strong advocate for ethical AI practices, emphasizing that data privacy and cybersecurity are key to fostering trust in digital systems. His leadership and vision make him a vital force in Africa’s growing technology ecosystem, advancing innovations that address pressing regional challenges while promoting secure and sustainable growth.
To ensure a secure future for the world, fostering the growth of AI and cybersecurity requires a similar focus on talent development, regulatory frameworks and cross-sector collaboration. Countries should prioritize AI and cybersecurity education, integrating these areas into academic programs and online courses to develop a globally competitive workforce. Clear and harmonized policies on data privacy, ethical use of AI and cybersecurity standards are essential to protect individuals and maintain trust in digital systems around the world. International partnerships – between governments, technology companies, educational institutions and NGOs – will further promote resource sharing, skills development and rapid adoption of safe and responsible AI practices across borders .
Equally important globally is strengthening digital infrastructure and ensuring equitable access to resources such as computing power and data storage. Investments in infrastructure globally, from data centers to cloud services, can drive innovation and enable rapid response to cybersecurity threats. Encouraging local and region-specific solutions, with dedicated R&D hubs around the world, will enable progress in solving unique challenges, from healthcare to financial security. This approach allows each region to provide solutions tailored to its needs while promoting an interconnected and resilient digital ecosystem on a global scale. In countries like Nigeria, the government should take the role of youth in the technology sector more seriously as they are critical instruments in shaping the country’s technological progress.
Africa is poised to play a transformative role in global AI and cybersecurity, leveraging its growing digital talents and unique challenges to drive secure and inclusive digital progress. By investing in education, fostering partnerships and establishing strong regulations, African countries can solve local problems while providing valuable insights into global technological challenges. Innovators like Dr Bosun Tijani, Orjinta Nnaemeka Orji and Professor Ndubuisi Ekekwe exemplify this potential, showing how Africa can shape a resilient and interconnected digital future. With its commitment to cybersecurity, ethical AI and lifelong learning, the continent is well-positioned to positively impact the global digital landscape.
