Coal reserves could help Nigeria enter $650 billion AI economy

Artificial intelligence growth is increasing global energy needs, creating new opportunities for Nigeria’s coal sector to support future technology infrastructure.

Nigeria could secure a share of the $650 billion artificial intelligence expansion by developing coal energy and strengthening its global industrial competitiveness.

Nigeria has been advised to develop its coal reserves to benefit from the rapidly expanding global AI economy. A policy organisation said the country could capture part of the projected $650 billion AI investment by strengthening its energy supply capacity.

AI infrastructure requires vast and reliable electricity to power data centres and advanced computing systems. Technology companies worldwide are increasing energy investments as competition intensifies and demand for computing power continues to grow rapidly.

Nigeria holds nearly five billion metric tonnes of coal, offering a significant opportunity to support global energy needs. Experts warned that failure to develop these resources could result in major economic losses and missed industrial growth.

The organisation also proposed creating a national corporation to convert coal into high-value energy and industrial products. Analysts stressed that urgent government action is needed to secure Nigeria’s position in the emerging AI-driven economy.

Would you like to learn more about AI, tech, and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!