The federal government on Thursday announced a new support by Google of about N2.8 billion to accelerate Artificial Intelligence (AI) talent development across Nigeria
Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, who made this known in Abuja.
He said the support, which is provided through a N2.8billion grant from Google.org to Data Science Nigeria, will bolster the Ministry’s ongoing AI-driven initiatives to upskill youth and under- and unemployed Nigerians, with a focus on AI skill development and education.
He said the grant is part of Google.org’s broader $5.8million commitment to support digital skills programs across Sub-Saharan Africa.
The Minister emphasised the importance of this support in driving Nigeria’s digital transformation:
“This support from Google is a testament to our commitment to positioning Nigeria as a leader in AI innovation. 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,” he said.
The N2.8billion Google.org grant will support Data Science Nigeria’s work with the Federal Ministry’s AI talent development programs, including DeepTech Ready Upskilling Programme: To provide 20,000 young Nigerians with advanced technical skills in data science and AI, preparing them for careers in this rapidly growing field.
Experience AI Programme: To equip 25,000 educators with the tools and resources to teach 125,000 young people about AI, inspiring the next generation of AI innovators.
Government AI Campus Programme: To upskill policymakers and public servants in AI policymaking, ensuring that Nigeria’s AI policies are developed and implemented responsibly.
Earlier this year, the Ministry set the stage for AI integration in Nigeria by hosting the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (NAIS) Workshop, followed by the release of the National AI Intelligence Strategy.
This strategy aims to leverage AI to drive economic growth, improve governance, and enhance the well-being of all Nigerians.
This new support from Google.org will build on this strong foundation, further cementing Nigeria’s position as a leader in AI innovation on the continent.
In a significant step towards advancing the AI ecosystem, the Ministry and Google also announced the selected beneficiaries of the AI Fund, established by the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) in collaboration with Google.
The Fund will see each selected startup receive ₦100million in funding, along with up to $3.5million in Google Cloud Credits to help scale their solutions.
Additionally, these startups will gain access to Google’s world-class AI tools, mentorship from Google’s AI experts, and opportunities to connect with a global network of innovators and partners”.