President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the National Information Technology Development Agency, (NITDA) to coordinate, alongside the private sector the efforts of the government in advancing the Artificial Intelligence and Digital transformation in Nigeria.
According to a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga monitored on the State House Website-www.statehouse.gov.ng/news/ the president handed down the directive in Paris, France when he had a meeting with the Google Chief Executive Officer, Sundar Pichai.
The statement quoted the President as saying that “The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy will provide Strategic oversight while NITDA will coordinate efforts alongside the private sector to ensure widespread and meaningful impact.
The statement said, “The Google team engaged in constructive discussion with President Tinubu with the aim of forging a strategic partnership to enhance Nigeria’s journey towards Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital transformation.”
It states further that “President Tinubu acknowledged Nigeria’s potential as a burgeoning global technology destination and expressed his commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment that attracts strategic investments from leading tech companies. He appreciated Google’s ongoing involvement in Nigeria’s digital transformation and its contribution to opening new opportunities for businesses and young talents.”
Commenting on the engagement with the President, the statement reported that Dr. Bosun Tijani highlighted the partnership between Nigeria and Google as a significant opportunity to accelerate the nation’s technological progress and reinforce the digital economy. He also affirmed Nigeria’s dedication to leveraging AI and digital transformation to deliver concrete benefits for businesses and citizens nationwide.
While reaffirming his company commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation, Mr. Pichai said “Nigeria has an incredible opportunity to lead in AI and digital innovation in Africa. Google is excited to continue working with the Nigerian government to create an ecosystem that fosters innovation and economic growth.”
The conversations focus on key initiatives such as expanding digital infrastructure in Nigeria, equipping the workforce with essential digital skills for the future, promoting AI-driven research and innovation, encouraging greater cloud adoption across various industries, and establishing Nigeria as a key player in the global digital economy.
The collaboration seeks to position Nigeria as a prominent technology and innovation hub, leveraging AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure to foster economic growth and enhance global competitiveness.