The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has called on the Federal Government to establish stronger governance and regulatory safeguards for artificial intelligence (AI) in Nigeria, warning that unethical deployment of the technology could threaten jobs and expose workers to harmful practices.
The chamber’s president, Engr. Leye Kupoluyi, made the call on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, during the LCCI’s fourth quarterly press conference in Lagos, where he presented the organisation’s assessment of the Nigerian economy.
Kupoluyi said Nigeria must develop a clear framework for managing artificial intelligence as businesses increasingly adopt digital tools to improve productivity, reduce operating costs and compete in the global economy.
“We call for robust governance of artificial intelligence technology in Nigeria to prevent abuses and unethical deployments that are detrimental to jobs,” he said.
The chamber’s position comes amid growing concerns about how AI-powered systems could affect employment, workplace practices, data protection and accountability as the technology becomes more widely used.
Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used across sectors such as banking, manufacturing, education, healthcare, retail and customer service. While the technology can improve efficiency and create new business opportunities, its adoption may also change the skills employers require and the types of jobs available.
The LCCI’s warning highlights the need for businesses to introduce AI responsibly, particularly where automated systems influence recruitment, employee monitoring, performance assessments or decisions that affect workers’ livelihoods.
The chamber did not call for an outright ban on AI. Rather, its position emphasises the need for effective governance to prevent misuse while allowing businesses to benefit from technological innovation.
A balanced regulatory approach could address issues such as data privacy, transparency, accountability and the protection of workers whose roles may be affected by automation.
Nigeria is emerging as one of Africa’s important markets for artificial intelligence adoption, although the technology’s integration into many sectors remains at an early stage.
The World Bank’s October 2026 Africa Economic Update identifies Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa among the continent’s major AI hubs. It also highlights the importance of adapting affordable AI solutions to address local economic and social challenges.
For Nigerian businesses, the opportunity extends beyond adopting foreign-developed tools. AI could support innovation, improve service delivery and help local companies develop products for domestic and international markets.
However, businesses and workers will need access to digital infrastructure, affordable electricity, training and relevant skills to benefit from these developments.
The LCCI’s position reinforces the importance of preparing Nigerian workers for changes in the labour market while ensuring that technological progress does not come at the expense of basic protections.
Effective AI governance could help establish clearer responsibilities for businesses, protect personal information and provide safeguards when automated systems make consequential decisions.
For employers, investing in staff training and introducing AI with appropriate human oversight may help workers adapt to changing job requirements.
The Federal Government faces the challenge of creating rules that address potential abuses without unnecessarily discouraging innovation and investment.
As AI adoption expands, the debate is shifting towards how Nigeria can use the technology to improve productivity, create economic opportunities and protect workers from its potential risks.