Google has unveiled a N3 billion investment initiative aimed at strengthening advanced artificial intelligence (AI) skills and promoting digital safety across Nigeria. The funding, channeled through Google.org, the company’s philanthropic arm, was announced on Friday in Abuja.
The initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s drive to position Nigeria as a global digital hub, including its National AI Strategy and the target of creating one million digital jobs. According to research by Public First, Nigeria could unlock up to $15 billion in economic value from AI by 2030 if the right capabilities are developed.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, described Google’s investment as a major boost to the country’s technological ambitions.
“Artificial Intelligence is central to Nigeria’s goal of enhancing productivity in our economy and our ambition to compete on a global scale in technology and innovation.
I welcome this significant and timely investment from Google and its foundation, which showcases the potential of impactful private-sector partnerships in developing our talent, improving our digital infrastructure, and advancing our national AI goals,” he said.
Tijani added that the initiative will directly support the rollout of the National AI Strategy and help position Nigeria’s innovators at the forefront of global technological advancement.
Google.org stated that the N3 billion fund will be distributed among five key organizations working to advance AI talent development and digital safety.
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Among the beneficiaries is FATE Foundation, which will collaborate with the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) to introduce advanced AI curricula in universities. The African Technology Forum (ATF) will implement an innovation challenge to help young developers turn their skills into market-ready solutions.
Junior Achievement (JA) Africa will expand its Be Internet Awesome programme to equip young people with digital literacy and safety skills, while the CyberSafe Foundation will strengthen cybersecurity readiness in public institutions.
Executive Director of FATE Foundation, Adenike Adeyemi, described the collaboration as a critical step toward preparing African youth for future opportunities.
“We are extremely proud to collaborate with the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences on the Advanced AI Upskilling Project, supported by Google.org.
This initiative directly addresses the urgent need for advanced AI skills in Africa, empowering higher education institutions, educators, and students across Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa,” she said.
Adeyemi emphasized that the project aligns with FATE Foundation’s goal of promoting innovation and sustainable economic growth, ensuring that Africa remains competitive in the global AI landscape.
Google’s Director for West Africa, Olumide Balogun, noted that the investment underscores the company’s long-term commitment to supporting digital transformation in the region.
