The world is moving to a stage where everything is automated but Nigeria is just behind the limelight and always one of the last to embrace new technologies and the government is not helping things either.
The Challenge Of Using Driverless Cars In Nigeria
Most of the road networks in Nigeria are unorganized so this poses a threat for the use of driverless cars. Apart from the road networks there are also other pressing issues that may place Nigeria far behind in embracing the use of driverless cars. The country lacks stable electricity, there are slow Internet connections in some areas and a very disorganized public transport system.
Since these vehicles are automated and need a fast and stable internet connection to work it may take years before driverless cars would be in use in Nigeria if these issues are not tackled. However, bad governance is slowly killing the future of technology in Nigeria. The funds meant to be used to improve the lives of the citizens are being embezzled and the Nigerian people have adopted a way of life that keeps them going strong despite the hardship.
Nigerians have learnt to smile even in the midst of pain and hardship. I must say that it's quite appalling that a country like Nigeria that is called "The Giant Of Africa" ( a name I feel Nigeria no longer deserves as they have learnt to celebrate mediocrity over meritocracy) does not have 24 hours electricity after over 50 years of existence.A particular group of persons are enjoying while the masses are suffering.
Driverless Cars
I've taken time to analyze the worst case scenarios that could occur if driverless cars come to Nigeria.
1. Reckless Danfo Drivers Ramming Into To The Cars.
(Danfo is a yellow bus usually used commercially around Lagos, Nigeria)
Automated cars have had their fair share of crashes, even Google's driverless car is exempted.
Most automated cars rely on artificial intelligence to predict the movement of the cars around.
An average Nigerian doesn't need a geek to tell him that before you can use artificial intelligence to predict the movements of these drivers, your artificial intelligence logic must be out of this world.
2. Owners Of Automated Cars Will Get Stuck The Road
Most traffic jams are caused when someone decides to break traffic rules and others decide to follow. It's either a traffic jam drains your car battery and you end up stuck on the road. Considering the fact that most automated cars especially Tesla cars are charged, with the current state of electricity in the country, it's almost a bad idea to even think of using an automated car here.
3. A Pothole Wrecks Your Engine
I've always wanted potholes to be shown on Google Maps for Nigeria but I guess it's going to take a while.
Engines of these cars are very expensive and I'm not yet sure if there are repair stations I'm Nigeria. This simply means that, if the A.I can't detect the potholes, then autopilot mode isn't a very good option.
I'd love to know what you think about having cars without drivers on Nigerian roads.
Credits: Naijatechguy
