The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy (FMCIDE) has announced a significant boost in AI talent development for Nigeria, following a generous N2.8 billion grant from Google.org to Data Science Nigeria. This partnership aims to bolster the Ministry’s AI initiatives, focusing on equipping young Nigerians with the digital skills necessary for success in an increasingly tech-driven global economy. This funding is part of Google.org’s larger $5.8 million commitment to foster digital skills across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Hon. Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, expressed the transformative potential of this support, stating, “This collaboration with Google reflects our shared dedication to positioning Nigeria at the forefront of AI innovation. Through this partnership, we are preparing Nigerians to thrive in the digital age, advancing our journey toward a more inclusive and tech-savvy future for all.”
The grant will fuel several targeted programs:
DeepTech Ready Upskilling Programme: Training 20,000 Nigerians in data science and AI skills for competitive careers.
Experience AI Programme: Enabling 25,000 educators to teach AI to 125,000 young Nigerians, cultivating the nation’s future AI leaders.
Government AI Campus Programme: Equipping policymakers with AI expertise to ensure effective governance in the digital era.
This partnership builds on the Ministry's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (NAIS) and aims to leverage AI for economic growth and improved governance.
As part of this initiative, the Ministry and Google revealed the 10 startups selected to receive support from the AI Fund established by the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR). These startups, spanning sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and energy, will each receive ₦100 million, $3.5 million in Google Cloud credits, and mentorship. Among them are BetaLife Health, Bunce, Farmspeak, and Lendsqr, all using AI to solve unique challenges.
Matt Brittin, Google’s President for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, reiterated Google’s dedication to empowering African innovators, noting, “Our mission in Africa remains unlocking the digital economy for more people, supporting those who are using AI to drive societal change.”
This collaboration aligns with findings that AI could contribute up to $15 billion to Nigeria’s economy by 2030, underscoring the critical role AI will play in Nigeria's digital future. This initiative not only fosters innovation but also strengthens Nigeria's economic landscape, preparing the country to thrive in the global digital economy.
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