President Bola Tinubu has held crucial discussions with Google CEO, Sundar Pichai, on initiatives to advance Nigeria’s role in Artificial Intelligence and digital innovation.
In a post via his X handle, President Tinubu disclosed that the meeting, which took place in Paris, France, was targeted at exploring potential partnerships aimed at positioning Nigeria as a global technology hub.
The President explained that the engagement is a key step toward leveraging AI and digital technology for national growth and development.
President Tinubu pointed out Nigeria’s emerging AI ecosystem emphasizing Awarri Technologies as a notable player in the sector. He noted that the federal government is collaborating with Awarri to develop critical AI software infrastructure structured for Nigeria’s unique needs in arts, culture, and languages. He added that these areas are also often overlooked by existing AI models.
Furthermore, President Tinubu said that the discussions with Google CEO align with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. This tagged mark has also prioritized initiatives such as economic diversification through industrialization, digitization, and innovation.
President Tinubu emphasized that the AI initiative would create new opportunities, empower businesses, and establish Nigeria as a major force in the global digital economy.
While reacting to the strategic meeting via an X post, Google Chief Executive Officer, Sundar Pichai said the occasion explored the potentials of AI in Nigeria and promising partnerships between the world’s largest search engine company and Nigeria.
On the supervising and implementation, President Tinubu disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy will provide strategic initiative for the partnership, while the Information Technology Development Agency will champion the implementation.
Tinubu’s drive for AI-driven development in Nigeria remains significant as it positions the country at the forefront of Africa’s digital transformation while leveraging global partnerships to drive innovation and economic diversification.
The Minister of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, expressed that the final approval of the project by the Federal Executive Council will make Nigeria a leading voice in Artificial Intelligence.
Tijani expressed that the National Artificial Intelligence Trust, the first of its kind globally, will consist of 10 AI experts as well as the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, and the Honourable Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology.
