Tech giant unveils major Google.org investment to power Nigeria’s AI strategy, train advanced talent, and strengthen cybersecurity nationwide…
Google, through its philanthropic arm Google.org, has unveiled a ₦3 billion initiative to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation, with a dual focus on artificial intelligence (AI) talent development and digital safety.
The announcement was made in Lagos on Friday by Olumide Balogun, Google’s Director for West Africa, during a media roundtable.
Balogun said the new commitment is designed to build high-end AI capabilities while expanding digital protection for vulnerable communities, noting that the effort aligns with Nigeria’s National AI Strategy and the Federal Government’s goal of generating one million digital jobs.
Citing findings from Public First, he noted that Nigeria stands to unlock $15 billion in economic value by 2030 if it successfully deploys AI at scale.
According to him, the initiative is structured to ensure that “Nigeria develops both the skilled workforce and the secure digital environment needed for sustainable, inclusive growth.”
“Google has been a long-standing partner in Nigeria’s digital journey, and this ₦3 billion commitment is the next chapter,” Balogun said. “It is an investment in people, empowering them with advanced AI skills while ensuring a safe digital space. We are honored to support the Ministry’s efforts to build a future where the promise of AI creates opportunity for everyone.”
Building on previous Google investments
Balogun added that the new commitment builds on Google’s earlier interventions, including the landmark Equiano submarine cable, and the 2023 Skills Sprint programme, a ₦1.2 billion collaboration with Mind the Gap.
He said the Skills Sprint trained 20,991 Nigerians, among them 5,217 women, in AI and digital technologies. Of these, 3,576 participants progressed into full-time jobs, internships, or business opportunities.
Funding to be deployed through five expert organisations
According to Google, the ₦3 billion support package will be executed through five partner organisations to scale AI training and digital safety programmes.
- FATE Foundation, in partnership with the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS), will roll out an advanced AI curriculum across universities.
- The African Technology Forum (ATF) will launch an innovation challenge to help developers turn AI training into real-world product development.
- Junior Achievement (JA) Africa will expand the Be Internet Awesome programme, targeting online safety for young people.
- The CyberSafe Foundation will strengthen cybersecurity systems across public institutions.
Partners: Africa must deepen AI capacity now
Speaking on behalf of the partner organisations, Adenike Adeyemi, Executive Director of FATE Foundation, said they were delighted to work with AIMS on the AI upskilling project, which she described as timely and essential.
Adeyemi explained that the programme responds to Africa’s “urgent need for deep AI competencies” and will empower lecturers, universities, and students across Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa.
She added that the initiative is aligned with FATE Foundation’s mission to strengthen innovation, drive sustainable economic growth, and help position Africa for a leading role in the global technology landscape.
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