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Google Grants Nigeria N2.8Bn for Al Development to Advance Digital Economy
Google.org has announced a N2.8 billion AI Talent Development grant to the country through the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMCIDE).
This is in a bid to support Nigeria’s economic growth through AI development,
This groundbreaking ₦2.8 billion grant initiative aims to equip thousands of Nigerians with advanced AI skills to thrive in the global economy. Importantly, it seeks to transform the country’s digital ecosystem, creating benefits such as employment opportunities, infrastructure development, effective service provision in every sector, and ultimately, economic growth.
“This support from Google is a testament to our commitment to positioning Nigeria as a leader in AI innovation,” said Dr. Bosun Tijani, minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.
“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 toward a more inclusive and innovative future for all Nigerians,” he added.
In announcing the AI Talent Development funding, Matt Brittin, president of Google for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, expressed Google’s commitment to Africa’s innovation ecosystem, stating, “Across Africa, entrepreneurs are harnessing the power of technology, including AI, to address large-scale societal challenges.
Google remains committed to supporting these innovators, helping them expand their impact across the continent and beyond. Our work in Africa has always been about unlocking the benefits of the digital economy for more people, and this collaboration continues that mission.”
He noted that the initiative was a collaborative effort between the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) and Google to support AI-driven startups in Nigeria.
“I’m pleased to announce that Google.org is providing ₦2.8 billion (approximately $1.7 million) in funding to the Data Scientists Network Foundation, supporting the Honourable Minister’s vision for AI growth in Nigeria. This funding will be directed toward critical initiatives that advance AI skills and opportunities across the country.
“Through this grant, we’re supporting the FMCIDE’s 3 Million Technical Talents (3MTT) program, focusing on equipping 20,000 young Nigerians with advanced skills in AI and data science.
Additionally, the Experience AI Program, developed with the Raspberry Pi Foundation, will train 25,000 educators to inspire and educate 125,000 young learners, introducing them to AI fundamentals.
“We are also investing in the Government AI Campus Program, providing training and resources for Nigerian policymakers. This program will help ensure that as AI adoption accelerates, Nigeria’s public sector is well-equipped to navigate this landscape with a focus on responsible governance.
“The AI Fund, created in collaboration with NCAIR, is providing 10 promising Nigerian AI startups with ₦100 million in funding, alongside up to $3.5 million in Google Cloud Credits, mentorship from Google engineers, and technical support. This support will enable these startups to scale solutions that address local needs in areas like healthcare, energy, and security,” Brittin said.
Brittin also announced that selected startups addressing key societal challenges across sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and security will receive ₦100 million in funding. Additionally, these startups will benefit from $3.5 million in Google Cloud Credits, along with expert guidance from Google’s AI specialists.
Among the 10 chosen startups are BetaLife Health, an AI platform that addresses blood supply needs across Africa, and Trade Lenda, which leverages AI to streamline credit access for small and medium-sized enterprises.
These companies, alongside others such as Rana Energy and Towntalk, are tackling local issues with innovative AI solutions.
The Google chief also stressed that the economic potential for AI in Nigeria is vast. “AI has the potential to add as much as $15 billion to Nigeria’s economy by 2030.
By enabling entrepreneurs and digital talent to harness AI technology, this initiative aligns with Google’s commitment to driving sustainable growth in Nigeria’s economy.
This support builds on Google’s prior commitment of ₦1.2 billion in 2023, aimed at digital upskilling and economic empowerment across the country.”
According to the Communications Ministry, this announcement follows earlier efforts to introduce AI into Nigeria’s economic landscape, beginning with the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (NAIS) Workshop and the launch of the National AI Intelligence Strategy. The strategy aims to leverage AI to drive growth across key sectors, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for all Nigerians.
The Ministry, which praised Google for the significant grant, noted that the funding will tremendously expand government efforts, reinforcing Nigeria’s role as an AI leader within Af
MTN Nigeria recently celebrated the graduation of the third cohort of its Media Innovation Programme (MIP), awarding a total of NGN 2.5 million in cash prizes to three outstanding fellows. The graduation ceremony took place at the Pan-Atlantic University in Ibeju-Lekki, highlighting MTN’s commitment to fostering innovation in the media sector.
Launched in partnership with the School of Media and Communication at Pan-Atlantic University, the MIP is designed to equip media professionals with essential skills in traditional journalism while emphasizing the importance of technology in storytelling. Over six-months, fellows engaged in a comprehensive curriculum that included topics such as media entrepreneurship, ICT in media, and ethical journalism.
During the graduation ceremony, three fellows were recognized for their exceptional contributions including the MTN Nigeria Chairman Award for Innovation awarded to Augustus Aigbe of Cool FM; the MTN Foundation Chairman Award for Innovative Reportage to Moninkanola Ogidan of Adaba 88.9FM, Akure and the MTN Award for Best Reporting awarded to Chiemelie Ezeobi from ThisDay Newspapers.
The Executive Director of MTN Foundation, Odunayo Sanya, emphasized the importance of the media innovation and adaptability in media, stating that these awards represent an investment in the future leaders of journalism. “At MTN, we believe a lot in excellence, which is why the partnership with Pan-Atlantic University is still ongoing. We recognise that the future of media lies in innovation and adaptability.
“These awards do not just celebrate the Fellows’ achievement; we are investing in the next generation of media leaders. In an era where digital platforms redefine how stories are told, media practitioners must be equipped with the skills and resources to thrive.”
Dr. Ikechukwu Obiaya, Dean of the School of Media and Communication, highlighted the significance of investing in future media professionals to drive positive societal change while maintaining ethical standards. “In recent times, technological innovation, social media, Artificial Intelligence and the likes have been viewed as dangerous, due to their misuse, although they are not in themselves bad.
“And this is one thing that drives our programs for media practitioners. Our vision is to train and equip competent and professional persons who will use these technological advancements and platforms as a means to contribute to the good of the society.”
The ceremony ended with the Class President, Nifemi Oguntoye expressing his gratitude towards MTN and Pan-Atlantic University for providing a transformative experience that fostered cultural diplomacy between Nigeria and South Africa. “We’ve had the privilege of learning from some of the best minds in the industry. The lessons learnt during our study trip, discussions and engagements have been invaluable. We are eternally grateful to Pan-Atlantic University and MTN for the commitment to empowering Nigerian journalists. A number of our colleagues look forward to having this experience in the next cohort and we know they will not be disappointed”, he said.
To date, MTN Nigeria has invested over NGN 300 million in the media. MIP not only aims to enhance the skills of individual practitioners but also seeks to contribute to a more robust media landscape capable of navigating the complexities of a digital economy projected to reach $18.3 billion by 2026. The event reflects MTN’s ongoing dedication to bridging the digital divide and enhancing media capabilities within Nigeria’s rapidly evolving landscape.
MTN Group and MTN Nigeria have expressed delight at participating in the 11th South Africa-Nigeria Bi-National Commission held in Cape Town on Tuesday, during which the strong bonds between the two countries were reinforced and plans were made to accelerate cooperation.
MTN Group CEO/President, Ralph Mupita and MTN Nigeria Chairman, Dr. Ernest Ndukwe with President Tinubu
The MTN delegation – led by Group President & CEO, Ralph Mupita, MTN Nigeria Chairman, Dr. Ernest Ndukwe and MTN Nigeria CEO, Karl Olutokun Toriola – was honoured to engage with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the sidelines of the meeting, which was hosted by South Africa’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Hon Parks Tau.
MTN Nigeria is an important MTN subsidiary, accounting for some 27% of all MTN subscribers and some 23% of Group service revenue.
MTN has long established itself as a company that is a proud supporter of the Nigerian economy, remaining committed to contributing to the nation’s progress across several fronts.
“We believe in the Bi-National Commission’s objectives and the pivotal role of the digital economy in driving inclusive growth in Nigeria. We look forward to continuing our support for economic development initiatives,” says a MTN LinkedIn post.
Digital Realty Nigeria’s CEO, Engr. Ikechukwu Nnamani, has received a prestigious Presidential recognition from the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) at the 7th .ng Awards.
Engr. Ikechukwu Nnamani
This accolade recognizes his significant contributions to the growth and evolution of Nigeria’s digital ecosystem over the past three decades.
“Nnamani was honored for his innovative spirit and leadership in shaping the future of the digital landscape,” said NiRA President, Adesola Akinsanya, while commending him and other awardees for their exceptional work in driving digital transformation in Nigeria.
A visibly humbled Nnamani dedicated the award to his dedicated team at Digital Realty Nigeria, acknowledging their pivotal role in the company’s success. He expressed gratitude to NiRA and the broader industry for recognizing his contributions.
This latest recognition adds to Nnamani’s impressive list of accolades, including the Lifetime Achievement Award at Africa’s Beacon of ICT Merit and Leadership Awards and the prestigious Titans of Tech Hall of Fame.
The 7th .ng Awards, a biennial event, celebrated the achievements of individuals and organizations that have made significant strides in Nigeria’s digital landscape.
The two-day event featured insightful discussions on emerging technologies, digital trends, and the role of the .ng domain in shaping Nigeria’s digital future.
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