Apply now for free AI academy for Nigerian youth, civil servants | Portal open now

Nigeria Launches Free AI Academy to Lead Africa’s Digital Revolution

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially launched a free Artificial Intelligence (AI) Academy, with the goal of positioning Nigeria as a leader in Africa's digital economy. The AI Academy was unveiled in Abuja by Chief Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, in collaboration with the Commonwealth Secretariat and Intel Corporation.

Chief Nnaji highlighted the academy’s potential to revolutionize the nation, providing an invaluable opportunity for Nigerians—especially students, young people, and civil servants—to acquire essential AI skills. These skills, he said, will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Nigeria. Registration for the program opened on December 19, 2024, and will close on January 30, 2025. Interested individuals are encouraged to register for the program via the provided link.

Beyond AI training, the academy offers participants the chance to compete for AI ambassador roles, secure internships with Intel, and gain practical global experience.

The Minister underscored the relevance of AI in driving progress across various sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, and national security. He explained that by equipping Nigerians with these cutting-edge skills, the government is creating pathways to new employment opportunities while nurturing a generation of innovators and leaders capable of transforming the country’s economy and technological landscape.

This initiative is part of a larger push by the administration to promote AI development in Nigeria. It ties into other efforts led by Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, which include crafting a National AI Strategy, launching a Large Language Model focused on low-resource languages and Nigerian accents, and advancing inclusive AI projects through the AI Collective.

Participants in the AI Academy will have access to self-paced courses, covering the fundamentals of AI, its ethical considerations, tools, and real-world applications. Chief Nnaji noted that the program is not just about securing employment but is designed to inspire participants to develop innovative solutions for Nigeria’s unique challenges.

This strategic initiative underlines the government’s dedication to empowering citizens and positioning Nigeria at the forefront of technological advancement in Africa and beyond.

Click here to apply