The Federal Government has partnered with Google and global learning platform Apolitical to launch the ‘Government AI Campus’, a groundbreaking training initiative designed to equip Nigerian public servants with the knowledge and tools to apply artificial intelligence (AI) in governance and service delivery.
The programme was unveiled on Thursday in Abuja with a flagship leadership briefing for senior government officials, marking a key milestone in Nigeria’s digital transformation drive.
Backed by Google and implemented through the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (FMCIDE), the initiative seeks to strengthen the capacity of public sector leaders to harness AI for improved policy-making, operational efficiency, and citizen services.
Empowering the Public Sector Through AI
According to a statement issued at the launch, participants will have access to online learning modules, expert-led masterclasses, and global peer-learning sessions focused on the fundamentals of AI, strategic leadership, and the ethical use of emerging technologies in the public sector.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, said the programme underscores Nigeria’s commitment to using technology to enhance government productivity and efficiency.
“We see Artificial Intelligence as a major driver of productivity across our key sectors,” Tijani said.
“We have been putting resources into ensuring that we can support our civil servants and public service so AI can become something native to them to accelerate how we administer our processes and deliver better services to our people.”
The minister added that the initiative aligns with the National Digital Economy Policy and the government’s broader Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises innovation, inclusion, and performance-driven governance.
Google: Building Human Capacity for Nigeria’s Digital Future
Also speaking, Olumide Balogun, Google’s Director for West Africa, said the partnership reflects the company’s long-term commitment to empowering the public sector and driving inclusive digital progress.
“Championing Nigeria’s digital transformation means investing in the people who shape its future,” Balogun said.
“By working hand-in-hand with public sector leaders, we are not only providing technical resources but sharing knowledge that empowers them to deliver better and more efficient government services.”
Balogun emphasised that AI-enabled governance can help unlock smarter decision-making, improve social outcomes, and foster inclusion across Nigerian communities.
Apolitical: Structured Learning to Drive Digital Leadership
On his part, Chris Ferguson, Vice President at Apolitical, said structured and continuous learning will be critical to the success of AI adoption in the public sector.
“Structured training is the cornerstone of successful AI adoption in government,” Ferguson said.
“This initiative will equip Nigerian public servants with the capabilities to lead digital transformation with confidence and foresight.”
Driving the Next Phase of Governance Innovation
The Government AI Campus represents one of the first structured efforts in Africa to integrate AI education into civil service training, positioning Nigeria as a regional leader in public sector innovation.
Officials say the programme will roll out progressively across ministries, departments, and agencies, targeting key decision-makers and technical officers responsible for digital strategy and service delivery.
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