Google commits N3bn to boost AI talent, digital safety in Nigeria

Google, through its philanthropic arm Google.org, has announced a N3 billion commitment to support Nigeria’s digital transformation through a two-pillar initiative focused on artificial intelligence (AI) talent development and digital safety.

Olumide Balogun, director for West Africa at Google, announced at a media roundtable in Lagos on Friday.

Balogun said the funding would support programmes to build advanced AI capacity and strengthen digital security across communities.

He said the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s push for digital leadership, including the National AI Strategy and the federal government’s target of creating one million digital jobs.

Balogun said Nigeria could unlock an estimated $15 billion in economic value from AI by 2030, citing Public First’s findings.

“This dual focus ensures the country has both the skilled workforce and the secure environment needed for its economic growth to be sustainable and inclusive,” Balogun explained. 

“Google has been a foundational partner in Nigeria’s digital journey, and this N3 billion commitment is the next chapter in that story.

“This is an investment in people aimed at empowering them with advanced AI skills and ensuring a safe digital space to operate.

“We are honored to continue our collaboration in support of the Ministry’s efforts to help build a future where the promise of AI creates opportunity for everyone,’’ ure where the promise of AI creates opportunity for everyone.”

Balogun said the commitment builds on earlier investments, including the Equiano subsea cable and the 2023 ‘Skills Sprint’ programme, a N1.2 billion initiative implemented with Mind the Gap.

He said the programme trained 20,991 participants, including 5,217 women, in AI and technology, with 3,576 beneficiaries progressing into jobs, internships, or business roles.

Balogun said the new funding would be channelled to five expert organisations to deepen AI talent development.

He said FATE Foundation, in partnership with the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS), would embed an advanced AI curriculum into universities.

The director also mentioned that the African Technology Forum (ATF) would introduce an innovation challenge to help developers transition from training to real-world product development.

He further said Junior Achievement (JA) Africa would expand the ‘Be Internet Awesome’ programme for young people, while the CyberSafe Foundation would strengthen cybersecurity within public institutions.

Speaking on behalf of the partner organisations, Adenike Adeyemi, executive director of FATE Foundation, said they were proud to work with AIMS on the advanced AI upskilling project, supported by Google.org.

Adeyemi said the initiative responds to the urgent need for deep AI competencies in Africa and would empower universities, lecturers, and students in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa.

The executive director said the support aligns with FATE Foundation’s mission to drive innovation and sustainable economic growth and to position Africa for leadership in the global tech future.