Google supports Nigeria’s artificial intelligence development with N2.8 billion grant

The Google has announced a N2.8 billion grant to bolster artificial intelligence (AI) talent development in Nigeria, while the fund will provide 10 Nigerian startups with N100 million in financing each and the intervention is designed to provide crucial support for the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy’s drive to build a tech-savvy workforce equipped for the digital economy.

Penpushing reports that President of Google for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Matt Brittin, made this known this on Thursday in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), explaining that the funding, provided through Google.org, is part of a $5.8 million investment by Google in Sub-Saharan Africa, aimed at empowering young Nigerians, educators, and policymakers with AI skills.

The President of Google for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa emphasized that the support aligns with Nigeria’s ambitious digital transformation strategy, affirming that Nigeria stands at a unique crossroads, with the potential for Artificial Intelligence (AI) to contribute immensely

“Nigeria stands at a unique crossroads, with the potential for AI to contribute immensely. Google sees Nigeria’s digital ambition as a beacon for Africa’s own journey in digital transformation, and we are committed to helping realise this ambition responsibly,” he said.

Penpushing further reports that Brittin explained that the grant will support three major initiatives designed to increase Artificial Intelligence (AI) competency across Nigeria, adding that the DeepTech Ready Upskilling Programme will provide 20,000 young Nigerians with training in data science and Artificial Intelligence (AI), equipping them for careers in the rapidly growing sector.

‘The Experience AI Programme, developed in collaboration with the Raspberry Pi Foundation, will train 25,000 educators to introduce AI concepts to 125,000 young learners, inspiring the next generation of AI innovators’.

‘Lastly, the Government AI Campus Programme will train public servants in AI policy, ensuring that as AI adoption accelerates, Nigeria’s regulatory landscape remains well-positioned to handle its complexities’, he stated.

Penpushing also reports that Brittin emphasised the potential for Artificial Intelligence (AI) to solve local challenges, citing existing initiatives like the OnTIME project, which uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to optimise emergency response times for maternal healthcare, and a flood forecasting collaboration with the UNOCHA Centre for Humanitarian Data, which has provided early warnings to communities at risk of flooding.

The President of Google for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa said Google remains committed to supporting citizens who embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI), helping them expand their impact across the continent and beyond.

Penpushing reports that in addition to the talent initiatives, Google announced an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Fund created in collaboration with the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR).

The Google boss said this fund will provide 10 Nigerian startups with N100 million in financing each, along with $3.5 million in Google Cloud Credits, mentorship, and technical support adding that these startups are tackling critical issues in sectors such as healthcare, energy, and security, aiming to create scalable Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered solutions for local and regional challenges.

‘This support is about more than financial resources. We’re committed to ensuring Nigeria has the skills, tools, and technology to lead in the digital economy. Together, we’re building a future where technology drives prosperity, and I’m incredibly excited to see what lies ahead for Nigeria,” he said.

Penpushing further reports that Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, described the Google partnership as a major step forward in positioning Nigeria as a leader in Artificial Intelligence (AI).

“This support from Google is a testament to our commitment to positioning Nigeria as a leader in AI innovation. 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 towards a more inclusive and innovative future for all Nigerian’ Tijani stated.

Penpushing also reports that the Minister pointed out that about 75 per cent of the programme is dedicated to young people, with the remainder focused on training public civil servants, and equally highlighted the Ministry’s broader strategy, including the AI-driven 3 million Technical Talents (3MTT) programme, as part of the government’s aim to build a robust and sustainable AI ecosystem for Nigeria’s future.

‘Earlier this year, the ministry released the draft of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, aimed at harnessing AI for economic growth and improved governance. Now, the N2.8 billion grant from Google.org is set to support this foundation, advancing Nigeria’s AI capabilities.

‘This framework is designed to harness AI for economic growth, governance improvements, and enhanced citizen welfare. Google.org’s recent support builds on this foundation, positioning Nigeria as a leading AI innovator in Africa. As part of this commitment, Google and the Ministry have revealed the recipients of the AI Fund, a collaborative effort with the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR).

Penpushing reports that the 10 startups selected are addressing key areas like healthcare, agriculture, education, and security through AI-driven solutions, while among the recipients are BetaLife Health, which predicts demand and matches blood types; Farmspeak, supporting livestock farmers with Artificial Intelligence (AI) for disease detection; and Towntalk, which provides security insights tailored to African communities.

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