The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is on track to become an AI-native government by 2027, presenting a valuable framework for Nigeria as it seeks to enhance its own digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. This ambitious goal aims to transform public administration by integrating AI into various government functions, which could serve as a blueprint for Nigeria's digital future.

In Abu Dhabi, the focus is not merely on implementing AI tools but on fundamentally rethinking how government services operate. Wesam Lootah, Director-General of Abu Dhabi’s Department of Government Enablement, emphasized the need for a comprehensive redesign of public services to better serve citizens and businesses. He stated that the initiative requires a shift from merely adding AI to existing processes to a complete overhaul of how government functions.

This approach is particularly relevant for Nigeria, where efforts led by Dr. Bosun Tijani have introduced digital platforms aimed at simplifying government transactions. Tijani's proposal for a unified digital platform, initially named OneGOV, is part of a broader digital transformation agenda announced in 2023. The goal is to streamline access to government services through a single online gateway, reducing the complexity of navigating multiple websites and agencies.

Abu Dhabi’s strategy involves three key layers of service integration. The first layer focuses on direct interaction between residents and the government through TAMM, a unified digital services platform that consolidates over 1,100 public and private sector services. The second layer coordinates services across various government institutions, while the third layer automates internal functions like human resources and finance, with a target of automating 80% of these services.

The effectiveness of such platforms relies heavily on the foundational infrastructure that supports them. Thomas Pramotedham, CEO of Presight, highlighted that the success of AI in government is less about the number of AI agents deployed and more about the underlying data systems that enable seamless service delivery. He pointed out that a lack of integration among legacy systems can hinder the user experience, underscoring the need for a cohesive digital strategy.

Nigeria is currently working on strengthening its digital infrastructure through various initiatives, including the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and the National Digital Cloud Policy, which aims to attract significant private investment in cloud computing and data services. The government is also focused on expanding broadband access nationwide through Project BRIDGE, which plans to deploy an extensive fiber-optic network.

However, creating a robust digital ecosystem is not solely about technology. It also involves ensuring that systems are interoperable, secure, and capable of protecting citizens' data. Experts emphasize the importance of establishing common standards and clear responsibilities among government agencies to facilitate effective data exchange.

The UAE's experience offers critical lessons for Nigeria, particularly regarding the importance of digital public infrastructure. Mohamed Al Askar, Director-General of TAMM, noted that digital public infrastructure is essential for AI-powered services, encompassing connectivity, data centers, and skilled personnel. He reported high customer satisfaction rates and significant automation achievements in Abu Dhabi, which Nigeria could aspire to replicate.

As Nigeria continues to develop its digital capabilities, it must also address concerns about technological sovereignty and the reliability of AI systems. Faisal Al Bannai, an advisor to the UAE President, emphasized that true sovereignty involves understanding and controlling the technology used in public services, not just owning the intellectual property.

In conclusion, Nigeria's path toward a more integrated digital government can benefit from the UAE’s comprehensive approach to AI and digital services. By focusing on building a solid infrastructure, ensuring interoperability, and prioritizing user needs, Nigeria can enhance its public service delivery and strengthen its position in the global digital economy.