Microsoft has announced a $1 million investment over the next two years to equip one million Nigerians with Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills, aiming to drive digital innovation and economic growth in the country.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by Microsoft's Country Manager for Nigeria, Ola Williams, during the launch of the Microsoft AI Tour in Lagos.
"This is a strategic investment to ensure that Nigerians have access to the critical skills needed not just to use AI but to develop cutting-edge solutions and build AI-driven businesses that provide sustainable livelihoods," Williams said.
The initiative seeks to position Nigeria as a leading player in the global AI space by empowering individuals with the knowledge to leverage AI for entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic competitiveness.
Describing the program as a "historic moment" for Microsoft in Nigeria, Williams emphasized the significance of Microsoft's African leadership attending the event, highlighting the company's confidence in Nigeria's potential for AI transformation.
The AI training program will target business leaders, developers, young professionals, and government officials. Williams assured that Microsoft will collaborate with stakeholders to ensure broad access to the initiative.
"We will continue to partner with stakeholders to ensure that this skilling platform remains accessible to everyone eager to take advantage of it," she added.
Microsoft's investment aligns with Nigeria's ongoing digital transformation efforts, reinforcing the country's ambition to become a tech powerhouse in Africa.
Microsoft Africa President, Lillian Barnard, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, emphasizing the critical role of AI in Nigeria's future.
"I am personally excited about bringing AI to Nigeria. AI adoption is growing globally, but it's essential to focus on Africa, particularly key markets like Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, and Kenya," Barnard said.
She highlighted Microsoft's 30-year presence in Africa and the recent decision to unify its operations under a single leadership team, aligning the company's Africa strategy with its global mission of empowering individuals and businesses through technology.
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"Our vision for Africa centres on driving inclusive, sustainable economic growth using Microsoft's technology to unlock new opportunities. During the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Africa participated but not boldly. Now, with the Fifth Industrial Revolution, focused on AI, we have a chance to accelerate our progress," Barnard added.
Microsoft is actively collaborating with governments, businesses, and individuals to integrate AI across key sectors, particularly Nigeria's financial services industry.
The company has launched similar AI training programs in South Africa as part of its broader AI Tour, reaffirming its long-term commitment to talent development in Africa.
Barnard noted that Microsoft's digital education strategy has evolved, shifting from basic digital literacy to advanced technical training.
"AI is now central to our skilling efforts because the demand for AI-related jobs is rising, yet many positions remain unfilled due to a lack of skilled professionals. It's crucial to equip Africa's youth with the right tools to seize these opportunities," she said.
Microsoft's approach includes AI training, infrastructure investment, and partnerships with industry leaders to maximize AI's potential.
"There is a lot of exciting work happening in Nigeria, particularly in the financial services sector. We are working closely with banks and other partners to harness AI's potential. I am excited about Nigeria's role in Africa's AI evolution and how our local team will help lead this transformation," Barnard concluded.
