On April 15, 2025, Nigeria officially launched its National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy, marking a significant milestone in the country's efforts to harness AI for economic development and innovation. The announcement was made by Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, during the inauguration of the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Collective Industry (NAICI) in Lagos. ​

The strategy, developed through collaboration among government entities, academia, and industry stakeholders, aims to position Nigeria as a leading AI hub in Africa. Key components of the strategy include:​

• Infrastructure Development: Enhancing digital infrastructure to support AI applications across various sectors.​

• Building a World-Class AI Ecosystem: Fostering a robust AI research and development environment.​

• AI Adoption Across Sectors: Promoting the integration of AI technologies in industries such as agriculture, healthcare, and education.​

• Responsible AI Development: Ensuring ethical guidelines and safety measures are central to AI advancements.​

• Robust Government Framework: Establishing policies and regulations to guide AI implementation and governance. ​

To oversee the implementation of the strategy, the government has established the National Artificial Intelligence Trust, comprising AI experts and key ministers. This body will mobilize resources, provide oversight, and guide AI development across critical economic sectors. ​

In line with the strategy, Nigeria has also introduced "Service-Wise GPT," an AI-powered assistant designed to streamline public service operations. The tool aims to enhance efficiency by automating routine administrative tasks and providing real-time policy research assistance.

Furthermore, Microsoft has announced a $1 million investment to provide AI skilling for one million Nigerians, supporting the government's objective to equip 70% of its young workforce with AI-related skills. ​

These initiatives underscore Nigeria's commitment to leveraging AI for national development, aiming to boost productivity, create job opportunities, and position the country as a leader in AI innovation on the continent.