Google is ramping up efforts to harness Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a catalyst for Nigeria’s digital transformation, recognising it as a critical driver of economic growth and development.
The President of Google for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Matt Brittin, highlighted the company’s commitment to leveraging emerging technologies such as AI and cloud computing to spur economic and social progress. Google aims to enhance connectivity, expand access to digital skills, and empower local entrepreneurs.
“Google is proud to be at the forefront of this transformation, but we’re prouder still of those driving this change. Across the region, African entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and organisations are using innovation to solve complex challenges,” Brittin stated.
Google’s AI initiatives focus on equipping African entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and organisations with the tools to tackle pressing issues.
During a recent visit to Nigeria, Brittin met with local startups and entrepreneurs, including Towntalk, Farmspeak, and BetaLife, which are applying AI to address challenges unique to the country. He was joined by Nigerian-born Alex Okosi, Google’s Head of Africa, as the team explored ways to help these businesses scale through AI.
Brittin emphasised the pivotal role of AI in fostering Nigeria’s burgeoning tech ecosystem.
“For Africa to fulfil its potential as an AI leader, we need to invest in the skills and knowledge base of local talent. That’s why we’ve backed several initiatives to boost AI skills among developers, individuals, and businesses in Nigeria and beyond,” he said.
Google’s Career Certificates programme equips Nigerians with job-ready skills in areas such as AI, cybersecurity, digital marketing, and programming languages like Python and SQL. Additionally, the Hustle Academy initiative offers AI-focused training tailored for small and medium-sized enterprises in Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa.
To further support these efforts, Google recently announced an additional $5.8 million (£4.6 million) in funding for foundational AI and cybersecurity training across Africa. This includes $1.5 million (£1.2 million) for Data Science Nigeria, aimed at training unemployed and at-risk individuals in foundational digital and technological skills. Data Science Nigeria, in collaboration with Raspberry Pi, will also roll out AI literacy programmes for young people in Nigeria and Kenya.