Nigeria launches AI and blockchain training initiative to enhance global competitiveness

Nigeria has unveiled a plan to train 1,000 Nigerians annually in modern technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain. The project was launched by the Nigerian government with support from Gluwa Technologies Limited to make Nigeria the technological hub of the world. 

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Kashim Shettima, the Vice President, launched the AI Expertise Blockchain and Technology Training and Outsourcing Initiative in Jigawa. The program is in line with Nigeria’s overall digital transformation agenda and leadership in Africa. Through education in AI, blockchain, and other emerging technologies, the government seeks to develop a skilled populace that can support economic and technological development. 

President announces grant for fintech development

In support of this initiative, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced a financial grant of 150,000 Nigerian nairas ($90) for micro, small, and medium enterprises. According to the President, the goal of this grant is to encourage the birth of the indigenous fintech market, as well as to strengthen Nigeria’s technological base. Shettima said the N150,000 is a non-refundable grant and an immediate cash intervention to support owners of MSMEs.

Vice President Shettima stated Nigeria is not only a country in the process of coming up but also a country that is set to overtake other countries in the world economically. The aim is to create a global talent pool that will drive future progress.

NITDA plans research centers for emerging technologies across Nigeria

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) of Nigeria is also contributing a lot to this regard. In early July, NITDA revealed its plans to create research centers for new technologies, including AI, IoTs, and blockchain, in Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. These centers will focus on important sectors, namely, Unmanned aerial vehicles, Additive manufacturing, and Robotics. 

NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, highlighted the agency’s commitment to fostering a strong technology research ecosystem. He said, “We are establishing a special-purpose vehicle that will look into these key areas and also establish research centers across the six geo-political zones of Nigeria that will be targeting these six key areas of emerging technologies.”

This news comes as a technology platform known as AI-Grants, which has collaborated with Civil Society Organizations on Community Advancement and Humanitarian Empowerment Initiative (CSCHEI) to introduce a program that aims to raise funds for institutions in Nigeria.

Nigeria’s bid to become a technological nation is not only through training and research institutions. The country has also established many other programs on innovation and entrepreneurship. These are intended to establish a network of technology enclaves that will drive Nigeria’s economic development in the coming years.