The Federal Government has announced plans to train over 200,000 Nigerians in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies as part of a national strategy to develop a digitally skilled workforce and position the country as a continental leader in AI innovation.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology during the 10th Annual Symposium and Awards of the American Chemical Society (ACS) Nigeria Chapter, held at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Abuja. Represented by a senior official, the Minister stated that the training programme is a key component of national efforts to deepen AI adoption across sectors and bridge the gap between research and real-world impact.
He emphasised that the convergence of AI and chemistry signals a transformative moment with the potential to drive innovation and sustainability in tandem. According to him, AI-driven chemistry presents an opportunity to shape the future by applying scientific knowledge to address pressing challenges.
Highlighting the current disconnect between academic research and its application in industries and policymaking, the Minister called for transformational research that leverages AI to solve real-world problems. He stressed that chemistry remains central to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and that forums like the symposium offer vital opportunities to generate ideas for national development.
NOUN Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, echoed the importance of AI integration in science, noting its role in improving chemical processes, reducing waste and energy use, and enabling the creation of sustainable technologies. He affirmed NOUN’s commitment to advancing technology-enhanced education and research that addresses both national priorities and global development goals.
Peters also urged participants to view the discussions—from AI-enhanced green chemistry to smart manufacturing—not merely as academic exercises but as vital contributions to building a knowledge-driven economy in Nigeria and across the continent.
ACS Nigeria Chair, Prof. Edu Inam, reaffirmed the organisation’s dedication to mentoring and research engagement. She highlighted ongoing campus events and outreach programmes designed to nurture young scientists and strengthen research participation.
