Grace Ashiru
Google.org has announced a $2.1 million (N3 billion) investment to support Nigeria’s artificial intelligence sector, targeting the creation of one million digital jobs and strengthening the country’s growing tech economy.
The investment comes as AI is projected to contribute $15 billion to Nigeria’s economy by 2030. The funds will support the country’s National AI Strategy through partnerships with local organizations focused on skills development and cybersecurity.
The tech giant is funding three organizations to deliver advanced AI training:
FATE Foundation and the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) will partner with universities to integrate AI curriculum into classroom teaching. The program aims to create a sustainable pipeline of AI-ready graduates.
The African Technology Forum (ATF) will run an AI innovation challenge, taking developers from bootcamp training through to product development and pitching stages.
“When we connect people with the right tools and opportunities, they don’t just find jobs—they build careers and become part of Nigeria’s growing digital economy,” a Google spokesperson said.
The investment also addresses digital safety concerns. Junior Achievement Africa will scale Google’s “Be Internet Awesome” curriculum to teach online safety to youth, parents, and teachers across the country.
The CyberSafe Foundation will provide cybersecurity training and technical support to public institutions to strengthen digital infrastructure defenses.
The announcement highlighted the case of Joel Kiate, a digital marketer in Abuja who secured employment after completing a Google digital skills program. Kiate had previously failed university entrance exams five times before the training opened career opportunities for him.
Google’s commitment reflects growing investment in Nigeria’s tech sector, which continues to position itself as a major hub for digital innovation in Africa.
