Google, through its philanthropic arm Google.org, announces a N3 billion (US$2.1M) commitment to Nigeria to accelerate the nation’s digital transformation via a two-pillar initiative.
Mr. Olumide Balogun, Google’s Director for West Africa, disclosed at a Lagos media roundtable that the funding will support programmes to build advanced AI talent and strengthen digital safety within communities. The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s National AI Strategy and its mandate to create 1 million digital jobs, unlocking a projected $15 billion in economic value from AI by 2030.
“This dual focus ensures Nigeria has both a skilled workforce and a secure digital environment for sustainable growth. Google continues to empower people with advanced AI skills while fostering safe online spaces,” Balogun said.
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The funding will be channelled to five expert organisations: FATE Foundation with the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences will embed advanced AI curriculum into universities; African Technology Forum will launch an innovation challenge guiding developers from learning to building products; Junior Achievement Africa will scale the ‘Be Internet Awesome’ programme for youth; and CyberSafe Foundation will strengthen cybersecurity for public institutions.
FATE Foundation’s Executive Director, Adenike Adeyemi, praised the partnership for empowering tertiary institutions and students in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa, highlighting its role in fostering innovation and sustainable economic growth across Africa.
This investment builds on Google’s prior initiatives in Nigeria, including the Equiano subsea cable and the 2023 “Skills Sprint” programme, which trained over 20,000 participants and moved thousands into jobs, internships, or businesses.
