Google has unveiled ₦3 billion fund to advance AI Skills, Innovation and Digital Safety in Nigeria.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that Google, through its philanthropic arm Google.org, has announced a ₦3 billion (US$2.1 million) funding commitment to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation, with a strong focus on advanced AI development and community digital safety.
Announced in Abuja on Thursday, the initiative is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global AI landscape by supporting two major pillars: building top-tier AI talent and enhancing digital safety across institutions and communities. The intervention aligns directly with Nigeria’s National AI Strategy and the federal mandate to create one million digital jobs.
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Public First projects that artificial intelligence could unlock up to US$15 billion in economic value for Nigeria by 2030, potential the new Google.org commitment aims to help actualize by ensuring the country has both the technical expertise and the secure digital environment needed for sustainable growth.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, welcomed the funding, noting that AI remains central to Nigeria’s ambition to boost productivity and strengthen global competitiveness.
“This investment from Google and Google.org comes at the right time. It supports the operationalization of our National AI Strategy and positions Nigerian innovators to lead in the global AI revolution,” he said.
Five Nigerian Organisations to Lead Execution
Google.org’s ₦3 billion fund will be channelled through five expert organizations working across AI skilling and digital safety.
To develop advanced AI talent:
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FATE Foundation in collaboration with the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) will embed advanced AI curricula into universities.
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The African Technology Forum (ATF) will launch an innovation challenge to guide developers from training to building real-world AI solutions.
To strengthen digital safety and cybersecurity:
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Junior Achievement (JA) Africa will scale its “Be Internet Awesome” programme to equip young people with digital safety skills.
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The CyberSafe Foundation will support cybersecurity capacity-building for public institutions.
Adenike Adeyemi, Executive Director of FATE Foundation, described the partnership as a milestone for Africa’s digital future, noting that the project will equip institutions and students with the deep AI competencies required to compete globally.
Google’s Director for West Africa, Olumide Balogun, said the funding reflects Google’s continued commitment to Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
“This ₦3 billion investment is about empowering people with advanced AI skills and ensuring a safe digital environment. We are proud to support the Ministry’s efforts toward a future where AI creates opportunities for everyone,” he said.
The initiative builds on Google’s previous investments in Nigeria, including the Equiano subsea cable and the 2023 “Skills Sprint” programme, a ₦1.2 billion partnership with Mind the Gap that trained over 20,000 participants, leading to more than 3,500 job placements and business launches.
With this new commitment, Google.org reinforces its long-standing role in shaping Nigeria’s digital evolution and supporting the country’s journey toward a technology-driven, inclusive, and globally competitive economy.
