President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) to collaborate with the Private Sector in driving Nigeria’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital transformation efforts. In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the directive was issued during Tinubu’s meeting with Google’s Chief Executive Officer, Sundar Pichai, in Paris, France. The president emphasised that the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy would provide oversight while NITDA takes the lead in coordinating initiatives to ensure widespread impact.
The discussions centred on forming a strategic partnership between Nigeria and Google to advance the country’s digital economy. Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s potential as a rising global technology hub and reiterated his commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment that attracts major tech investments. He commended Google’s ongoing contributions to Nigeria’s digital transformation and its role in expanding opportunities for businesses and young talents. The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, described the collaboration as a crucial step towards accelerating technological progress and strengthening the digital economy.
CEO of Google backs Nigeria’s push for a tech-driven future.
Moreover, Google’s CEO, expressed optimism about Nigeria’s prospects in AI and digital innovation, stating that the company remains committed to supporting the country’s technological advancement. Discussions covered key areas such as expanding digital infrastructure, promoting AI-driven research, increasing cloud adoption across industries, and equipping the workforce with essential digital skills. The overarching goal is to position Nigeria as a leading technology and innovation hub in Africa, leveraging AI and Digital Infrastructure to drive Economic Growth and global competitiveness.
This collaboration comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with significant challenges in digital inclusion, particularly in rural and underserved areas where Internet Access remains limited. Although the government’s push for AI and digital transformation is commendable, bridging the existing digital divide remains a crucial step in ensuring that technological advancements benefit all Nigerians, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status. Expanding internet access, lowering data costs, and enhancing Digital Literacy must be prioritised alongside AI-driven initiatives to create an inclusive digital economy. Without these foundational improvements, even the most advanced AI solutions may fail to reach those who need them most, widening the gap between urban and rural populations and reinforcing existing inequalities.
Nigeria’s tech sector can drive economic growth with the right policies.
Furthermore, Nigeria’s technology sector holds immense potential to drive economic diversification, offering an opportunity to reduce the country’s long-standing reliance on oil revenues. A robust digital Economy can attract foreign investment, create high-value jobs, and foster innovation in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and agriculture. For instance, AI-driven solutions in Agriculture can enhance food security, while digital tools in Education can expand access to quality learning materials for students across the country. However, sustaining this momentum will require more than just innovation; it will demand strong regulatory frameworks, comprehensive Data Protection policies, and robust cybersecurity measures to build investor confidence and safeguard digital assets.
The partnership with Google also raises important questions about local content development and the growth of indigenous technology. While foreign investments and expertise undoubtedly bring value, Nigeria must ensure that its homegrown technology startups and innovators are not overshadowed or stifled by global tech giants. A digital economy that is too dependent on foreign technology may struggle to develop local expertise and sustain long-term growth. Encouraging policies that support Nigerian-led AI research, providing funding for local digital initiatives, and fostering collaborations that empower homegrown talent will be essential to achieving digital sustainability, alongside creating an enabling environment for innovation, and supporting homegrown entrepreneurs through access to funding and infrastructure.
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Ultimately, the success of Nigeria’s AI and digital transformation ambitions will depend on how effectively these initiatives are implemented and sustained over time. Beyond high-level discussions and policy directives, the real test will be in delivering measurable outcomes, such as improved digital infrastructure, increased employment in tech-driven fields, and the widespread adoption of AI-powered solutions that address Nigeria’s most pressing challenges. The ability to translate digital transformation goals into tangible benefits for citizens, businesses, and the broader economy will determine whether Nigeria can truly establish itself as a global technology powerhouse.