Exploring the Place of AI Administration and Democratic Governance in Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the nexus between artificial intelligence (AI) and democratic governance, using Nigeria as a case study from 2013 to 2023. It employs a neo-institutional theory, integrating historical and sociological institutionalism to analyse how institutional structures, cultural norms, and path dependence shape policy outcomes. Adopting an ex post facto research design, the research utilises documentary data collection and content analysis to analyse the research questions. The findings reveal that Nigeria's engagement is constrained by limited R&D investment, institutional inertia, and a misalignment between global norms and local realities, despite a growing ecosystem of private-sector innovation. The study concludes that overcoming these structural and cultural barriers is essential for Nigeria to actively shape and benefit from global AI governance frameworks. This study adds to the body of work on digital governance in the Global South by showing how important institutional legitimacy and historical context are for adopting new technologies. This study recommends strengthening government investment in AI R&D to enhance participation in global AI governance forums and also to foster structured public-private partnerships to integrate AI startups and capacity-building outcomes into public sector governance.