Nigeria is taking a bold step toward digital transformation with the approval of two major initiatives: the Nigeria Universal Communication Access Project and the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Trust. Spearheaded by President Bola Tinubu’s Federal Executive Council (FEC), these projects aim to boost digital access, economic growth, and innovation through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) funding model.
As part of the country’s Infrastructure Strategy, these initiatives complement Project Bridge, an ambitious plan to roll out 90,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable nationwide. The Universal Communication Access Project is set to connect over 21 million Nigerians in underserved regions, bridging the digital divide and expanding access to online services. Meanwhile, the AI Trust will position Nigeria as a leader in AI innovation, ensuring the ethical development and adoption of artificial intelligence across various industries.
In alignment with these efforts, Nigeria has also launched Service-Wise GPT, an AI-powered tool designed to improve government efficiency, streamline policy drafting, and enhance access to critical public service information. Additionally, the country is establishing Wini University, Nigeria’s first AI-focused institution in Epe, Lagos, to equip young Nigerians with cutting-edge AI skills.
A report on Sub-Saharan Africa’s digital opportunities predicts that AI could contribute over $30 billion to the region’s economy within the next decade. With Nigeria actively crafting a National AI Strategy, these initiatives create vast opportunities for businesses and startups, enabling them to explore AI-driven solutions, expand their reach, and enhance operational efficiency.
By driving digital inclusion and AI innovation, Nigeria is positioning itself as a key player in the global digital economy, fostering job creation, investment, and technological advancement.
