GTBank RMD, Jubril Adeniji, tasks academia on artificial intelligence

At the ongoing 41st annual conference of the Nigerian Mathematical Society (NMS) holding at the University of Ibadan between May 6th and 10th, 2024, with the theme “Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and National Economy,” GTBank’s Kenya Regional Managing Director, Jubril Adeniji, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the importance of academia’s role in driving research and development in AI. 

Adeniji, a versatile banker with 21st century knowledge in the banking industry and a product of the Department of Mathematics UI, began his speech by acknowledging the significance of Mathematics as a foundation for various scientific disciplines, exclusive of none, and technological advancements. He then highlighted AI as a critical area of focus due to its potential to revolutionize industries and boost economic growth. The GTBank Regional MD further emphasized that Nigeria could not afford to be left behind in this global technological race as he showcased various countries where AI is being  resourceful utilized.

He urged academia to invest more resources into AI research and development, stating that it was essential for Nigeria to build a strong foundation in this field. Adeniji also encouraged collaboration between academia, industry, and government to foster innovation and create an enabling environment for AI adoption.

The GTBank executive shared insights from his experience with AI implementation, citing increased operational efficiency and improved customer service as some benefits. He also mentioned potential applications of AI in sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture, and finance.

Adeniji concluded his speech by challenging attendees to explore ways they could contribute to Nigeria’s AI ecosystem. He expressed confidence that with their expertise and dedication, they could make significant strides in this area. The Regional MD also pledged GTBank’s support for collaborative efforts, students internship, aimed at advancing AI research and development in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, other keynote address speaker, Mr. Abayomi Adelowotan,  a Data scientist at the Chevron Nigeria Ltd, brought his expertise to fore by leveraging on the opportunity of the conference to address germane areas on AI. He implored participants to move with the global trend to develop themselves in their areas of specializations. 

Other notable speakers expected to deliver papers at the plenary sessions in the ongoing conference are Prof. Luigi Accardi from Rome University, Italy; Prof. Balazs Szendroi, from Venia University Austria and Prof. Nicholas Youmbi of the St. Francis University, Lometown.

In attendance at the conference were the NMS President, Prof. Bashir Ali who had earlier welcomed members to the August conference, even though held in May, during the official opening ceremony. Bashir urged the participants to utilize the opportunities the conference could afford to grow in their academic pursuits. The conference had earlier been declared open by the Premier University, UI Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kayode Adebowale. Equally present were all NMS national council, executive members, Fellows of NMS; Prof. Ezekiel Ayoola, Prof. Samuel Ilori, Prof. Olabisi Ugbebor, Prof. Jayeola, Emeritus Prof. Godwin Ekhaguere who also delivered a plenary talk on K-theory, a special area in algebra, and other esteemed Professors whose names are too numerous to be mentioned.

Others include the conference LOC members, chaired by Dr. P. O. Arawomo, the Acting Head of UI Department of Mathematics, noble and esteemed members of the society spread across the country, guests and students, including Dr. Kehinde Adenegan, an alumnus of the host Department/University and founder of AGES and the popular YMC (Yoruba Mathematics Class) teacher on YouTube.