- Nigeria Secures N1.6 Billion AI Investment from Microsoft
- The announcement was made by Ola Williams, Managing Director of Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana
- The initiative aims to create a sustainable AI ecosystem by training one million Nigerians
Microsoft has announced a $1 million (N1.6 billion) investment in Nigeria over the next two years to support the development of artificial intelligence (AI) in the country.
The announcement was made by Ola Williams, Managing Director of Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana, at the AI Nigeria Tour conference and exhibition in Lagos.
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She was joined by Lilian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa, who emphasized the need to position Nigeria as a leading AI hub on the continent.
The initiative aims to create a sustainable AI ecosystem by training one million Nigerians in AI and other emerging technologies.
Williams highlighted that, rather than replacing jobs, AI would contribute to job creation, with an estimated 70 million new opportunities emerging in Nigeria alone.
Microsoft projects that Nigeria’s AI market will grow at an annual rate of 27.08% from 2025 to 2030, with AI contributing an estimated $15 billion to the country’s GDP by the end of the decade.
In alignment with Nigeria’s draft National AI Strategy, which seeks to equip 70% of the young workforce with AI-related skills, Microsoft has committed $1 million to its AI Skilling Initiative.
This program, developed in collaboration with the Nigerian government, will provide in-demand AI training to one million Nigerians by 2026.
“At Microsoft, we believe AI has the power to transform economies and societies. Our commitment to AI skills development in Nigeria reflects our dedication to empowering individuals and organizations to achieve more,” Williams stated.
The investment will support various digital skill programs, including AI and cybersecurity training, with a focus on youth and women. Additionally, Microsoft will extend its AI education programs to business leaders and public sector executives.
This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s national goals to drive economic growth, promote social inclusion, foster technological advancement, and invest in digital and creative industries. Williams noted that expanding access to Microsoft’s skilling resources will further drive AI and cloud technology adoption in Nigeria.
“The launch of this AI skilling initiative is not just about individual progress but about uplifting entire communities. By democratizing AI education, we are creating a more equitable digital future for all,” she added.
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Since 2021, Microsoft has been working with the Nigerian government to upskill citizens through the 3MTT platform. By early 2024, four million Nigerians had engaged with the initiative. Microsoft’s collaboration with Wootlab Foundation has also successfully trained participants in AI, preparing them for the evolving digital economy.
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