Nigeria is set to make significant strides in the global artificial intelligence (AI) sector through a groundbreaking partnership between the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMCIDE) and Google.org to boost aI talent Development.
A generous grant of N2.8 billion (approximately $5.8 million) has been secured to bolster AI talent development, equipping Nigerians with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, hailed the collaboration as a major milestone in the country’s pursuit of technological innovation. “This support from Google is a testament to our commitment to positioning Nigeria as a leader in AI innovation,” Dr. Tijani said.
“By leveraging Google’s expertise and resources, we are creating opportunities to equip Nigerians with the skills they need to thrive in the global digital economy. This is a major step forward in our journey towards a more inclusive and innovative future for all Nigerians.”
The N2.8 billion grant will fund several key programs that aim to nurture AI talent across various sectors in Nigeria, including youth, educators, and government officials. A central part of the initiative is the DeepTech Ready Upskilling Programme, which is set to provide advanced data science and AI training to 20,000 young Nigerians. The program focuses on real-world applications and practical skills, preparing participants for careers in the tech industry.
In parallel, the Experience AI Programme will empower 25,000 teachers to introduce AI concepts into classrooms, reaching an estimated 125,000 young people. By equipping educators with the necessary tools and knowledge, this initiative will help build the next generation of innovators and leaders in AI.
The Government AI Campus Programme is another vital component, focusing on upskilling policymakers and public servants in AI-related decision-making. This initiative will ensure that those in positions of governance are equipped to create responsible policies that promote ethical AI development, fostering a sustainable and equitable AI ecosystem in Nigeria.
This partnership builds on FMCIDE’s ongoing efforts to integrate AI into Nigeria’s economic and social frameworks. Earlier this year, the Ministry released the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which outlines plans to harness AI for growth, governance, and overall national well-being.
In addition to educational programs, the partnership will support AI startups through the AI Fund, established by the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) in collaboration with Google. Selected startups will receive up to ₦100 million in funding, along with up to $3.5 million in Google Cloud Credits to scale their AI-driven solutions. The beneficiaries represent a range of industries, from healthcare to agriculture and education. Notable examples include:
- BetaLife Health: A platform addressing Africa’s blood supply needs using AI.
- Bunce: An AI-powered customer engagement platform.
- CDIAL AI: Providing text-to-speech and speech-to-text solutions for underserved regions.
- Farmspeak: Helping livestock farmers with AI-driven disease detection.
- Lendsqr: Streamlining global lending processes through AI.
- ProDevs: Connecting global companies with vetted African tech talent via AI-driven job matching.
Matt Brittin, President of Google for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, expressed the company’s dedication to empowering African entrepreneurs. “Across Africa, entrepreneurs are harnessing the power of technology, including AI, to address large-scale societal challenges,” Brittin said. “This collaboration is aimed at unlocking the full potential of Africa’s digital economy.”
The economic impact of AI in Nigeria is substantial. Reports suggest that artificial intelligence could contribute $15 billion to the nation’s economy by 2030. By providing training and resources to local entrepreneurs, innovators, and startups, this partnership seeks to fully capitalize on this potential, driving growth and creating sustainable economic opportunities.
This collaboration also builds on Google’s previous commitment of N1.2 billion in 2023, which focused on empowering Nigerians through digital skills programs. Together with FMCIDE’s ongoing initiatives, this grant is poised to foster a thriving AI ecosystem in Nigeria, one that nurtures talent, promotes innovation, and drives economic prosperity.
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