Tech Giant Partners with Local Groups to Boost Digital Skills in Nigeria
Microsoft has announced a $1 million plan to train 1 million Nigerians in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital skills over the next two years. Working with partners like Tech4Dev and Data Science Nigeria, this initiative aims to prepare Nigeria’s youth for future job opportunities in the global market.
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Microsoft has unveiled a $1 million initiative to train 1 million Nigerians in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital skills within the next two years. This announcement was made during an event in Lagos, highlighting Microsoft’s commitment to enhancing Africa’s AI landscape by equipping young Nigerians with essential skills for the evolving global economy.
The programme will be led by Microsoft Nigeria in collaboration with local partners such as Tech4Dev and Data Science Nigeria. These organisations will work together to deliver training aimed at empowering Nigerian youth with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in AI-related fields.
Olatomiwa Williams, Managing Director of Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “We are thrilled to bring our mission to life by investing in Nigeria’s talent. Our goal is to empower every person and organisation to achieve more, and this investment is a step towards ensuring that Nigerians are equipped to harness the opportunities presented by the fifth industrial revolution, which AI drives.”
While the initiative’s scale is ambitious—allocating $1 per trainee—Microsoft has a history of digital skills programmes in Nigeria, having reached 4 million Nigerians to date. This new effort aims to build upon those successes, focusing specifically on AI competencies.
This move comes as other tech giants also invest in Nigeria’s AI future. In October 2024, Google announced a ₦2.8 billion ($1.7 million) grant to support AI talent development in the country, as part of a broader $5.8 million commitment to digital skills across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Microsoft believes that AI can significantly boost economic growth in Africa, with projections suggesting it could add $15 billion to Nigeria’s GDP and $1.5 trillion to the continent’s economy by 2050. This initiative not only aims to prepare the Nigerian workforce for future opportunities but also aligns with Microsoft’s strategic interests in fostering a skilled pool of professionals familiar with their AI tools and services.
Image Source: Jean-luc Ichard/Getty Images.
