The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMCIDE) has secured a ₦2.8 billion grant from Google.org to bolster AI talent development across Nigeria. This initiative aligns with Google.org’s commitment to fostering digital skills in Sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to the Ministry’s vision to make Nigeria a leader in AI.
The grant will support the DeepTech Ready Upskilling Programme, training 20,000 young Nigerians in data science and AI, and the Experience AI Programme, enabling 25,000 educators to introduce 125,000 students to AI concepts. Additionally, the Government AI Campus Programme will equip policymakers with AI policy knowledge, supporting responsible governance.
The Ministry, alongside Google, also launched a ₦100 million AI fund for 10 Nigerian startups, each selected for their work in healthcare, agriculture, education, and governance. The startups, including BetaLife Health, Lendsqr, and Trade Lenda, will receive financial support and access to AI tools, Google Cloud Credits, and mentorship.
Minister Bosun Tijani affirmed that Google’s support signals a step toward establishing Nigeria as a significant player in AI innovation, projecting that Nigeria’s AI market, set to hit $1.05 billion this year, will grow to $4.64 billion by 2030.
