News in brief:
– The federal government and the Gates Foundation have launched a $7.5 million AI hub to support innovation in key sectors.
– This hub will empower local talent and deploy AI solutions to improve education, agriculture, and health in Nigeria.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a Nigerian Artificial Intelligence (AI) Scaling Hub in collaboration with the Gates Foundation, committing to the responsible adoption of AI technologies to transform critical sectors such as health, education, and agriculture.
The initiative was officially unveiled on Monday during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy and the Gates Foundation in Abuja.
$7.5 million in support over three years
According to the ministry, the AI hub will receive financial backing of $7.5 million (approximately ₦11.25 billion) from the Gates Foundation over three years.
The funds will be used to deploy mature and impactful AI solutions that improve lives and create economic opportunities across Nigeria.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, described the partnership as a major step toward responsible AI development in Nigeria.
“By working with the Gates Foundation, we are strengthening our capacity to ensure that AI-driven solutions are developed responsibly and deployed equitably,” Tijani said. “The AI Scaling Hub will serve as a catalyst for Nigerian innovators — providing the resources, mentorship, and support necessary to translate ideas into impact.”
Supporting local talent and inclusion
Also speaking, Uche Amaonwu, Nigeria Country Director at the Gates Foundation, highlighted the inclusive approach of the partnership.
“We’re proud to support the Nigeria AI Scaling Hub with the Government of Nigeria and Lagos Business School, investing in local talent and innovation to ensure the benefits of AI reach those who need them most,” she said.
A strategy for Africa
The launch of the hub comes shortly after Nigeria introduced its National AI Strategy in April 2025. The Federal Government stated that the strategy is designed not only to guide Nigeria’s AI journey but also to serve as a model for other African nations, helping to boost regional economic growth through innovation.
The AI Scaling Hub is expected to become a platform that nurtures local ideas, accelerates digital transformation, and ensures that AI solutions address real-world challenges in underserved communities.
