The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMCIDE) has announced a ₦2.8 billion grant from Google to support AI skills training in Nigeria. This grant, provided through Google.org, is for Data Science Nigeria and aligns with Google.org’s larger $5.8 million commitment to digital skills programs in Sub-Saharan Africa.
In August 2024, Nigeria launched a National AI Strategy to use AI to boost the economy, improve governance, and enhance the lives of Nigerians. The new Google grant will fund Data Science Nigeria’s work with the Ministry on various programs, including:
- The DeepTech Ready Upskilling Programme: Training 20,000 young Nigerians in data science and AI.
- The Experience AI Programme: Preparing 25,000 teachers to teach AI to 125,000 students.
- The Government AI Campus Programme: Educating policymakers on AI for responsible governance.
Nigeria’s AI market is expected to reach $1.05 billion in 2024 and grow significantly each year, potentially reaching $4.64 billion by 2030. Minister Bosun Tijani sees Google’s support as a strong step toward making Nigeria a leader in AI.
The Ministry also recently launched a ₦100 million fund for Nigerian startups working with AI, selecting ten startups to receive ₦100 million each, along with up to $3.5 million in Google Cloud Credits, advanced AI tools, mentorship, and access to Google’s global network. The startups include:
- BetaLife Health
- Bunce
- CDIAL AI
- Farmspeak
- Lendsqr
- ProDevs
- Rana Energy
- SaaSPro Health
- Towntalk
- Trade Lenda
The Ministry chose these startups because they focus on healthcare, agriculture, education, and governance—sectors important for solving local problems and supporting long-term economic growth with AI.
Source: TechPoint Africa
