ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, CLIMATE CHANGE AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY IN AFRICA: FOCUS ON NIGERIA

Abstract

This paper explores how artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to influence climate change mitigation and support environmental sustainability across Africa, particularly in Nigeria. As "thinking machines," AI systems can perform tasks traditionally requiring human intelligence—such as data analysis, prediction, and decisionmaking— providing innovative solutions to pressing environmental and economic issues. While the concept of AI dates back to the 1950s, its contemporary evolution has created new possibilities for application in the Global South. In the African context, the primary challenge is the readiness of environments—technical, educational, and infrastructural—to support AI deployment. Still, AI holds significant promise for enhancing climate resilience, optimizing natural resource use, and accelerating sustainable development. Through a review of current literature and practical African examples, this study uses a descriptive research approach to analyze the correlation between AI integration and sustainable environmental management. The findings suggest that AI can shape a sustainable and equitable future in Africa and recommend that educational systems incorporate AI literacy to prepare the next generation for this transformation.