LEGAL AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK FOR ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) IN CUSTOMARY LAW IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has come to stay in Nigeria. The absence of a dedicated legal framework for Artificial Intelligence (AI) in customary law creates a regulatory gap that could lead to inconsistencies in the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies in these culturally sensitive areas. The general legal framework for Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Nigeria is primarily guided by broader legislation on technology and data protection. The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) Act 2007, for instance, outlines the framework for information technology development in Nigeria, but it does not specifically address Artificial Intelligence (AI). Similarly, the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) 2019 provides guidelines on data privacy, but it falls short of addressing the unique challenges posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI), especially in the context of customary law. In this article, the writer shall look at the definitions of basic concepts like legal and regulatory framework, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and customary law. The need for robust regulatory environment was examined. Proposals for legal reform was equally examined as well as future trends in legal governance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Nigeria