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Nigeria is bidding to lead in artificial intelligence. The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and Google are working hand in hand to help Nigeria lead in AI and cybersecurity in West Africa.
NITDA announced this via the organisation’s official X account on Saturday, July 26. NITDA’s moves are hinged on its agenda to build a robust, inclusive and secure digital ecosystem in Nigeria. It wants to manifest development in the country by leveraging modern innovation in AI.
Nigeria and Google Strengthen Ties in High-Stakes Tech Collaboration
Following extensive talks on Friday, July 25, 2025, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and tech giant, Google, have reaffirmed their resolve to take significant steps to strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy. Google Vice President of Government Affairs & Public Policy (Cloud) Marcus Jadotte and NITDA Director General Kashifu Inuwa led the talks.
The talks were also attended by several senior government officials from Nigeria. The group went further, visiting key members of President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet. Notable cabinet members who hosted the NITDA and Google delegation include:
- Mallam Nuhu Ribadu (the National Security Adviser).
- Dr. Bosun Tijani (Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy).
- Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo (Minister of Interior).
- Dr. Tunji Alausa (Minister of State for Education).
With several ministries coordinating to promote tech-driven growth, this lineup demonstrates how seriously Nigeria is taking its digital transformation mission.
What’s Next for Google and Nigeria?
The high-profile talks point to the fact that significant steps are imminent, even though little has been disclosed to the public. Cybersecurity, AI innovation, digital skills training, and cloud computing are areas expected to be impacted.
Nigeria is taking calculated actions to unlock digital development, and the possibilities are endless when Google is involved.
These steps align with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. His administration is taking steps to transform and fast-track Nigeria’s economic and social development using digital innovation. NITDA is optimistic that its partnership with Google will boost AI innovation, strengthen Nigeria’s cybersecurity and strengthen digital infrastructure. They aim to empower Nigerian businesses, institutions, and common citizens.
The grand plan is to create a thriving ecosystem and position Nigeria as a regional leader in technology.
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President Tinubu Meets Google’s Sundar Pichai
As part of his drive to position Nigeria to lead in AI, President Bola Tinubu met with Google’s CEO, Sundar Pichai, on Wednesday, January 12, 2025. After that meeting, the President restated Nigeria’s readiness to lead in AI in Africa. The country is collaborating with Google to realize this plan.
President Tinubu shared the details on his verified X handle. He stated that he had fruitful talks with both Google and Alphabet CEOs about boosting Nigeria’s role in AI and digital innovation.
“Nigeria is poised to take the lead in AI and technology—this is merely the start of an exciting journey!” he tweeted.
He then laid out the exciting plan, stating: “We are exploring partnership opportunities with Google, which will focus on five key areas. These areas include enhancing scalable cloud infrastructure, equipping our workforce with essential skills for the future. Other areas are AI innovation and research, driving cloud adoption, and elevating Nigeria’s standing in the global tech landscape. We will turn the country into a hub for innovation and AI transition.”
He even pointed out that Nigeria already has some promising players in the AI scene, like Awarri Technologies. The federal government of Nigeria is already working with Awarri Technologies. Together, they aim to build essential AI software infrastructure that will serve the Nigerian market.
Tinubu emphasised that these talks with Google align with his government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The administration led by the president aims to diversify the economy through industrialisation, digitisation, and innovation.
“This will empower businesses, create new opportunities, and establish Nigeria as a significant player in the global digital economy,” the president stated.
Boosting Education and the Economy
NITDA and Google also aim to revamp the country’s education system to modern standards. They want to use AI-powered learning platforms and digital tools to ensure students get equipped with the right knowledge and skills for the future.
“The collaboration seeks to bridge the skills gap and create a future-ready workforce,” the statement added.
NITDA believes that Nigeria will benefit immensely through this partnership. Among the expected benefits, aside from making the country lead in AI, are reduced public sector tech spending, improved workforce and better public services. Also, the partnership will enhance national security and increase foreign investment. All of these are expected to fuel sustainable economic growth.
The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy will oversee the collaboration. NITDA, on the other hand, will drive the actual implementation.
