The Federal Government has launched a free Artificial Intelligence (AI) Academy to train Nigerians with the skills needed to thrive as digitalisation continues to take over.
The initiative, driven by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology in partnership with the Commonwealth Secretariat and Intel Corporation, aims to place the country as a leader in AI innovation across Africa.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, explained that the academy is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of AI and its real-world applications.
He urged Nigerians, especially students, young professionals, and civil servants, to seize this opportunity to gain cutting-edge knowledge and contribute to the nation’s growth.
Programme Overview
The AI Academy offers self-paced online courses covering AI fundamentals, ethics, tools, and practical applications.
Participants will also have access to advanced opportunities, including internships with Intel Corporation and roles as AI ambassadors.
Registration for the programme is open from 19 December 2024 to 30 January 2025 via the Ministry’s official website.
“The AI Academy is not just a training platform but a transformative opportunity for Nigerians—students, youths, and civil servants—to acquire critical skills in AI,” Nnaji stated. “In a world where AI is reshaping industries, solving complex problems, and creating new economic frontiers, it is imperative that Nigeria not only keeps pace but leads the charge.”
AI’s Role in Nation-Building
Chief Nnaji stressed the huge impact of AI on critical sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, and security.
According to him, integrating AI into these industries will enable Nigeria to address its unique challenges with innovative solutions.
He added that the academy aligns with other government initiatives, including the recent launch of Nigeria’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy.
This policy framework is designed to ensure that the country maximises the benefits of AI while promoting inclusivity and collaboration among stakeholders.
Driving Nigeria’s AI Competitiveness
Since the start of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, progress has been made in integrating AI into Nigeria’s digital economy.
Under the guidance of the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, the government has launched initiatives such as the Nigerian Large Language Model (LLM), which supports low-resource languages and accented English.
These aim to ensure Nigeria remains at the forefront of AI innovation in Africa. “Our vision is to build a future where AI drives economic progress and also solves complex societal problems,” Nnaji concluded.
