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Artificial Intelligence-Enabled Secure Digital Inclusion Framework (AISDIF): A Case Study of Taraba State Jalingo Metropolis

Okpalaifeako Lydia Chikaodiri, Salisu Mohammed Kwadam

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a key enabler of digital transformation by improving access to digital services, enhancing decision-making, and strengthening cybersecurity. However, digital inclusion remains a significant challenge in resource-constrained communities due to limited digital literacy, inadequate ICT infrastructure, affordability constraints, and increasing cyber threats. This study developed and validated an Artificial Intelligence-Enabled Secure Digital Inclusion Framework using Taraba State, Nigeria, as a case study. A mixed-methods approach based on the Design Science Research Methodology was adopted, combining quantitative survey data from 316 respondents with expert evaluation to assess the proposed framework. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Cronbach's alpha, Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and Analysis of Variance in IBM SPSS Statistics Version 29. The findings revealed strong positive relationships among AI adoption, digital inclusion, and cybersecurity behaviour. The regression model explained 67.7% of the variation in framework effectiveness (R2 = 0.677), with AI adoption emerging as the strongest predictor (β = 0.463, p < 0.001). Expert validation further confirmed the framework's completeness, usability, scalability, practical applicability, and policy alignment, with all evaluation criteria achieving mean scores above 4.40. The study concludes that integrating AI, digital inclusion, and cybersecurity within a unified framework can significantly enhance secure digital participation in underserved communities. The proposed AISDIF provides a practical and scalable model for policymakers, ICT practitioners, and researchers seeking to advance inclusive and secure digital transformation in Nigeria and other developing countries.

Keywords

Artificial IntelligenceDigital InclusionCybersecurityDigital TransformationDesign Science Research Methodology . IJCSMT

References

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