Abuja: In a significant boost to Nigeria’s digital economy, Google has awarded a N2.8 billion grant to support the country’s artificial intelligence drive. Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy, Dr Tijani Bosun, described the grant as timely and stated that it will help the government achieve its renewed hope agenda. He spoke during a press briefing where the President of Google for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Matt Brittin, announced the grant to support the Nigerian government’s digital economy transformation in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
According to Voice of Nigeria, Dr Tijani emphasized the importance of this support in building a strong local workforce for AI, citing the need to equip Nigeria’s youth with the necessary skills to participate in the global economy. He highlighted the significance of Google’s planned training for public officials to ensure a strong understanding of artificial intelligence, preventing the adoption of unsuitable policies.
The Preside
nt of Google for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Mr Matt Brittin, underscored AI’s transformative impact across various industries and Google’s commitment to responsible AI use. He outlined Google’s contributions to the Nigerian economy, including support for startups and initiatives like the Black Founders Fund, which provides non-dilutive capital to African entrepreneurs.
Brittin announced that Google.org is providing N2.8 billion in funding to the Data Scientists Network Foundation, supporting Nigeria’s AI growth vision. This funding will advance AI skills and opportunities, focusing on the FMCIDE’s 3 Million Technical Talents programme and the Experience AI programme, developed with the Raspberry Pi Foundation.
Google is also investing in the Government AI Campus Programme to equip Nigerian policymakers with the skills needed for responsible AI governance. The AI Fund, in collaboration with the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, will support 10 promising Nigerian AI startups
with funding, Google Cloud credits, mentorship, and technical support.
Mr Olumide Balogun, Director for West Africa at Google, highlighted the $15 billion opportunity AI presents for Nigeria’s GDP growth, emphasizing the need for infrastructure, skill development, and talent. He commended the Minister’s vision and strategy for developing the digital economy, aligning with Google’s mission.