Interswitch Group, a leading African integrated payments and digital commerce company, has stressed the vital role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of work and the digital economy. Franklin Ali, Group Chief Human Resources Officer at Interswitch, shared these insights at the InnovateAI Conference Lagos 2025, where Interswitch participated as a Platinum Sponsor for the second consecutive year.
The conference, themed “Scaling AI Adoption in Nigeria: Catalysing Cross-Sectoral Innovation and Fostering Inclusive Growth,” brought together AI experts, innovators, and scholars to discuss accelerating AI adoption across key sectors like fintech, financial services, public services, and oil and gas. The goal is to leverage AI to boost efficiency and drive economic growth.
During a panel discussion on “AI & The Future of Work in Nigeria,” Ali emphasized the urgent need for young professionals to develop AI skills, adopt a growth mindset, and engage in continuous learning to thrive in an increasingly automated world. He stated, “The AI economy is a gateway to the knowledge economy, and it is imperative that we embrace this shift.” He highlighted the need for Nigeria to prioritize reskilling and upskilling its workforce to compete globally, citing the need for core and enabling skills like data literacy, JavaScript, and other technical competencies.
Ali also stressed the importance of targeted learning and problem-solving, stating, “AI is not just a buzzword; it is a tool for solving real-world problems.” He used Lagos’ traffic congestion as an example, suggesting that AI-driven solutions could provide relief. However, he cautioned that effectively using AI requires a deep understanding of core tech skills in areas like natural language processing, robotics, and machine learning.
He encouraged young professionals to pursue tech careers, highlighting their financial rewards and growth potential. Ali also challenged the notion that AI is solely for tech professionals, urging individuals across all industries to embrace digital transformation to avoid becoming obsolete. He acknowledged that while AI could displace some jobs, it will also create new opportunities for those with the right skills.
The conference also featured an Innovation Showcase, highlighting groundbreaking AI-driven solutions tailored to Nigeria’s unique challenges. Interswitch’s sponsorship underscores its commitment to advancing technology, including AI, to drive financial inclusion and digital transformation. By collaborating with stakeholders and fostering industry dialogue, Interswitch aims to propel AI-powered innovation that will advance Nigeria’s digital economy. As a pioneer in African fintech, Interswitch remains dedicated to championing initiatives that harness technology’s transformative power to unlock opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and improve user experiences.