Lagos, Nigeria – Microsoft has pledged a $1 million (N1.6 billion) investment over the next two years to bolster Nigeria’s artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, positioning the country as a leading AI hub in Africa.
The announcement was made by Ola Williams, Microsoft’s Managing Director for Nigeria and Ghana, during the AI Nigeria Tour in Lagos. She was joined by Lilian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa.
The initiative aims to train one million Nigerians in AI and emerging technologies, aligning with the country’s draft National AI Strategy, which seeks to equip 70% of its young workforce with AI-related skills. This move is expected to support job creation, as AI is projected to contribute $15 billion to Nigeria’s GDP by 2030, with the global AI market expected to generate over 70 million new jobs.
Through its AI Skilling Program, Microsoft will offer training in AI, digital skills, and cybersecurity to youth, women, business leaders, and public sector executives. The program is designed to enhance digital literacy, drive economic growth, and encourage wider adoption of AI and cloud technologies.
“At Microsoft, we believe AI has the potential to transform economies and societies. Our commitment to enhancing AI skills in Nigeria is a testament to our dedication to empowering individuals and organizations to achieve more,” Williams stated.
The investment aligns with the Nigerian government’s priorities to drive economic growth, industrialization, and digital transformation. Microsoft has been involved in Nigeria’s skills development since 2021, partnering with the government to upskill Nigerians through the 3MTT platform, which had engaged over four million Nigerians by early 2024.
This AI skilling initiative underscores Microsoft’s long-term commitment to building a digitally inclusive Nigeria while fostering innovation and job creation in the AI sector.