The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (FMCIDE) announced a substantial N2.8 billion grant from Google aimed at accelerating artificial intelligence (AI) talent development across Nigeria.
This was made known on Thursday, highlighting a collaborative effort to enhance AI-driven initiatives for the youth and those seeking employment.
The grant, awarded to Data Science Nigeria, is part of Google’s broader $5.8 million commitment to support digital skills programs throughout Sub-Saharan Africa.
The funding will focus on AI skill development and education, reinforcing the Ministry’s efforts to create a digitally skilled workforce.
In a statement released by Dr Bosun Tijani, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, he disclosed the transformative impact of the support.
According to the Minister “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 Al talent development programs, including Deep Tech Ready Upskilling Programme.
Tijani explained that it would provide 20,000 young Nigerians with advanced technical skills in data science and Al, preparing them for careers in this rapidly growing field.
“Experience Al Programme: To equip 25,000 educators with the tools and resources to teach 125,000 young people about Al, inspiring the next generation of Al innovators.
“Government Al Campus Programme: To upskill policymakers and public servants in Al policymaking, ensuring that Nigeria’s Al policies are developed and implemented responsibly.
Earlier this year, the Ministry set the stage for Al integration in Nigeria by hosting the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (NAIS) Workshop, followed by the release of the National Al Intelligence Strategy.
He noted that the strategy aims to leverage Al 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 Al innovation on the continent.
“In a significant step toward advancing the Al ecosystem, the Ministry and Google also announced the selected beneficiaries of the Al 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 Al tools, mentorship from Google’s Al experts, and opportunities to connect with a global network of innovators and partners,” Tijani stated.
The 10 startups selected for the Al Fund are BetaLife Health, Bunce, CDIAL AI, Farmspeak, Lendsqr, ProDevs, Rana Energy, SaaSPro Health, Towntalk, and Trade Lenda.
Tijani added that by focusing on sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, and governance, the startups will play a crucial role in addressing local challenges and driving sustainable economic growth through AI.
While speaking, Matt Brittin, President of Google for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, emphasised the company’s dedication to fostering Africa’s innovation ecosystem.
He said, “Across Africa, entrepreneurs are leveraging technology, including AI, to tackle significant societal challenges. Google is committed to supporting these innovators as they expand their impact across the continent and beyond.
“Our efforts in Africa have consistently focused on unlocking the digital economy’s benefits for a wider audience, and this collaboration furthers that mission.”
It said, “This initiative is part of a broader report that underscores the economic potential of AI in Nigeria. Recent findings from Public First indicate that Artificial Intelligence could contribute up to $15 billion to Nigeria’s economy by 2030.
Brittin explained that by providing local entrepreneurs and innovators with the necessary tools, resources, and training to harness AI, this initiative aims to tap into that potential, reinforcing the importance of this collaboration for Nigeria’s digital future.
“This builds on Google’s commitment of ₦1.2 billion to Nigeria, announced in 2023, which aims to empower 20,000 Nigerians through digital skills and economic growth programs.
“Together with the Ministry, Google is focused on creating a sustainable AI ecosystem that not only nurtures innovation but also promotes economic and social impact across Nigeria,” Brittin added.