Investing in digital skills accelerates regional tech development and prepares African nations for a digital future. This approach helps address critical challenges. Additionally, it tackles the region’s high youth unemployment, creating more opportunities for the next generation.

Nigeria announced a N2.8 billion ($1.7 million) commitment from Google to support the digital economy. The investment was led by Matt Brittin, Google’s President of EMEA Business & Operations. Announced on October 31 by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, this commitment aligns with Nigeria’s Strategic Blueprint for Digital Transformation.

The minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy commented on the move saying, “I appreciate the entire Google team for betting big on our technology ecosystem and their continued support. I look forward to building on our partnership, as we continue on our path of Digital Transformation in Nigeria.”

Such investments come as digital growth becomes increasingly essential. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria's digital economy contributed 16.36% to the country’s GDP as of Q2 2024, just behind trade and Agriculture. This underscores the strategic importance of fostering technological innovation and skills to further boost economic resilience and global competitiveness.

The investment will fund initiatives to train 20,000 Nigerians in AI and Data Science, introduce 125,000 young students to AI fundamentals, support over 1,000 public officials in AI-driven governance, and empower 10 Nigerian AI startups with funding, tools, and mentorship.

Google's support aims to strengthen Nigeria's role in the global digital economy by promoting technical skills and fostering innovation nationwide. This effort is part of a broader $5.8 million investment to advance AI skilling programs across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Hikmatu Bilali