Harmonising Innovation and Accountability: A Hybrid Legal Framework for Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria

Abstract

This article examined the legal and institutional problem of reconciling artificial-intelligence innovation with public accountability in Nigeria. It was motivated by the growing use of artificial intelligence in finance, agriculture, healthcare, education and public administration, notwithstanding the absence of a dedicated and fully operational statutory framework governing the technology as a distinct regulatory subject. The article adopted a doctrinal and comparative method. It analysed the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2025 and relevant sectoral legislation. It then compared Nigeria’s emerging approach with three deliberately selected models: the European Union’s binding, risk-based regime; the United Kingdom’s principles-led and sector-based approach; and Singapore’s practical soft-law and assurance framework. The article argued that Nigeria should not transplant any one of these models wholesale. The authors maintained that the more appropriate course is a phased, constitutionally anchored hybrid framework which preserves room for socially beneficial innovation while imposing proportionate obligations on high-risk uses. In the immediate term, Nigeria should coordinate existing regulators, issue cross-sector AI principles, require impact assessments for high-risk systems, strengthen regulatory sandboxes and establish safeguards for public-sector deployment. In the medium term, the country should consolidate institutional capacity, clarify responsibility across the AI value chain and develop a Nigerian risk taxonomy. Binding AI legislation should follow when the State has sufficient technical and enforcement capacity to administer it effectively. The article concluded that innovation and accountability are not opposing ends: in Nigeria’s circumstances, credible accountability is a condition for public trust, sustainable investment and enduring AI innovation.