Nigerians Show Strong Enthusiasm For AI, According To New Google/Ipsos Survey

A new global survey from Ipsos and Google reveals that attitudes towards artificial intelligence (AI) are trending positively as its use becomes more widespread.

The study, “Our Life with AI: From Innovation to Application,” surveyed 21,000 people across 21 countries, finding that global AI usage has jumped to 48% and excitement about its potential now exceeds concerns (57% vs. 43%, up from 50% / 50% last year).

In Nigeria, AI adoption and enthusiasm are even higher. 70% of the online population have used generative AI, surpassing the 48% global average. Moreover, 87% are excited about AI’s potential and see its benefits outweighing the risks.

“AI is starting to deliver magic at scale, making people’s lives easier and better,” said Kent Walker, President of Global Affairs, Google & Alphabet. “Today’s survey results show the more people use these tools, the more excited they get about the possibilities and about the personal, professional, and scientific breakthroughs on the way.”

AI Optimism on the Rise

The survey results indicate that optimism about AI is growing within the surveyed online community in Nigeria. Key findings include:

• Generative AI Use: Among Nigerian survey participants, 70% reported using generative AI in the past year, which is significantly higher than the global average of 48%.

• Positive Outlook: A substantial 87% of Nigerian respondents feel that AI’s potential benefits outweigh the associated risks, suggesting a strong belief in the positive impact of AI.

• Economic Impact: A significant 81% of surveyed Nigerian adults believe AI will positively change the economy.

• Societal Impact: Furthermore, 90% of the survey respondents in Nigeria anticipate AI having a positive impact on science and medicine, demonstrating the widespread belief in the potential of AI to drive progress in these sectors.

How Nigeria Fares Versus Other Regions

Nigeria’s online population demonstrates a higher level of excitement and adoption of AI when compared to other regions. The survey indicates:

• Nigeria is among the top countries in terms of AI usage and excitement about its potential.

• This contrasts with more cautious sentiment in some European and North American countries.

AI Opportunity for Science and Medical Breakthroughs

The Nigerian online community sees immense potential for AI in science and medical advancements:

• A significant 90% of survey respondents expect AI to positively impact science and medicine. This is one of the highest rates globally, highlighting the strong anticipation of breakthroughs in these fields through AI.

AI as a Tool for Personal and Professional Growth

The surveyed online population in Nigeria recognises AI’s potential to enhance personal and professional development:

• Many believe AI can improve people’s lives by boosting productivity and providing access to resources.

Pro-Innovation Sentiments Prevail

Within the Nigerian online population surveyed, there is a prevailing sentiment that supports the fostering of AI advancement rather than restrictive regulations. This suggests that those surveyed are keen to embrace innovation.

Global Comparison of 2023 and 2024 Results

Our latest multinational survey with Google shows that people view the continuing development of AI as important and exciting, but something that should be done thoughtfully,” said Ben Page, CEO, Ipsos. “We find that as more people use and gain experience with AI, they are better able to see how AI can help them and the possibilities that AI gives them.

These results highlight the strong enthusiasm and optimism of the surveyed online population in Nigeria about the role of AI in various aspects of life, particularly in the economy, healthcare, and scientific advancement. The findings suggest that Nigeria’s online community is among the most enthusiastic globally about the transformative potential of AI.