In a bold move to harness the power of artificial intelligence for national development, the Federal Government of Nigeria has partnered with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to launch the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence (AI) Scaling Hub a $7.5 million initiative aimed at accelerating the responsible deployment of AI across key sectors, including education, agriculture, and healthcare.
Announced during a formal memorandum of understanding (MoU) signing ceremony in Abuja on Monday, the collaboration marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey.
The initiative is spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, with strategic support from the Gates Foundation over a three-year period.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, emphasized the government’s commitment to responsible AI development and inclusive innovation.
“Our partnership with the Gates Foundation strengthens our ability to foster AI solutions that are not only cutting-edge but also ethically grounded and equitably deployed,” Tijani stated. “This hub will empower local innovators to translate ideas into impactful solutions that improve everyday life for Nigerians.”
Uche Amaonwu, Nigeria Country Director at the Gates Foundation, underscored the foundation’s vision to democratize the benefits of AI by investing in local talent and institutions.
“We are proud to support the Nigeria AI Scaling Hub in collaboration with the Government of Nigeria and Lagos Business School,” Amaonwu said. “Our goal is to ensure AI technologies reach and uplift underserved communities, creating pathways to better opportunities and outcomes.”
The hub builds on the momentum of Nigeria’s National AI Strategy, introduced in April, which positions the country as a trailblazer in AI policy on the continent.
The strategy is designed to serve as a blueprint for other African nations, aiming to foster inclusive economic growth and technological sovereignty.
With this initiative, Nigeria joins a growing list of countries leveraging AI not just as a technological tool but as a catalyst for sustainable development and societal advancement.
