Nigeria: FG Seeks Strategic Partnership with Google to Boost AI Innovations

The Federal Government of Nigeria is advancing discussions with Google to drive Artificial Intelligence (AI) innovation and cloud adoption, positioning the country as a leading digital economy in Africa.

President Bola Tinubu shared details of this initiative on Wednesday via his verified X handle, following a high-level meeting with Google and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai in France.

Strengthening Nigeria’s AI and Digital Transformation

Tinubu described the engagement as a significant step toward advancing AI and digital transformation in Nigeria, emphasizing that the nation is ready to take the lead in AI-driven technological advancements.

“Nigeria is poised to take the lead in AI and technology—this is merely the start of an exciting journey!” Tinubu stated.

The proposed collaboration will focus on five key areas:

1. Enhancing Scalable Cloud Infrastructure
2. Equipping the Nigerian workforce with future-ready digital skills
3. Promoting AI research and innovation
4. Accelerating cloud adoption across industries
5. Positioning Nigeria as a hub for global AI advancements

AI Prospects and Government’s Commitment

President Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s growing AI ecosystem, citing Awarri Technologies as an example of local AI-driven innovation. The Federal Government is working with Awarri to develop AI software infrastructure tailored to Nigeria’s needs.

The collaboration aligns with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes economic diversification through industrialization, digitization, and innovation.

“This initiative will empower businesses, create new opportunities, and establish Nigeria as a significant player in the global digital economy,” Tinubu stated.

Government and Google’s Commitment

The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy will oversee the collaboration, while the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) will drive its implementation.

Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to AI innovation, stating:

“Extremely productive conversations with President Tinubu and Pichai today, which underscore our commitment as a government and Google’s ongoing support towards developing Artificial Intelligence skills and innovation in critical sectors in Nigeria.”

Google CEO Sundar Pichai also expressed enthusiasm about the partnership:

“It was a great meeting with President Tinubu. We talked about the immense potential of AI in Nigeria and how we can partner to expand AI skills, enable innovation, and support Nigeria’s growing tech ecosystem.”

This strategic collaboration marks a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s digital economy, paving the way for AI-driven growth, tech talent development, and increased global competitiveness.