A Nigerian entrepreneur and technology expert, Elizabeth Jack-Rich, has explained why artificial intelligence (AI) remains underrated in Nigeria and across Africa.

Speaking at a recent AI-focused event in Washington, United States, Jack-Rich said the issue stems from the tendency to overlook the critical role of physical infrastructure and resource supply on the continent.

She argued that AI should not be seen mainly as a software-driven revolution but rather as one deeply rooted in energy, industrial capacity, and raw materials.

“Everyone talks about AI as a software story, but it is not. It is a physics story—in power, infrastructure, and the systems required to extract and refine critical resources,” she said.

Jack-Rich further noted that Africa’s role in the emerging AI economy is often underestimated, not just in terms of mineral resources, but also in its potential to develop integrated industrial capacity.

“What is underestimated is not that Africa holds a major deposit or is a major supplier of these minerals, but what is underestimated is the fact that the next decade rewards operators on the continent,” she said.

Her remarks come amid rising global demand for critical minerals and energy infrastructure needed to power AI systems, data centers, and other digital technologies.

The AI economy is projected to contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030.