Microsoft has announced an ambitious plan to train one million Nigerians in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital skills over the next two years, backed by a $1 million investment. The initiative, launched in Lagos, aims to position Nigeria as a key player in the global AI ecosystem.
The program, which will be free and accessible to business leaders, developers, young professionals, and government officials, is being implemented in partnership with organizations including Tech4Dev, Data Science Nigeria, and various Nigerian universities and technology hubs.
Ola Williams, Microsoft’s Country Manager for Nigeria, emphasized that the initiative goes beyond basic AI usage, focusing on developing skills to create AI-driven businesses and solutions that can compete globally. The investment comes at a crucial time, as Nigeria’s AI market is projected to grow by 27.08% annually from 2025 to 2030, potentially adding $15 billion to the country’s GDP by 2030.
Microsoft Africa President Lillian Barnard highlighted the broader implications for the continent, noting that if Africa captures just 10% of the global AI opportunity, it could boost the continent’s GDP by $1.5 trillion. This is particularly significant given projections that by 2050, one in four people worldwide will be African.
The initiative builds on Microsoft’s existing engagement in Nigeria’s digital development. Since 2021, the company has collaborated with the Nigerian government on digital skills training, reaching four million Nigerians through the 3MTT platform.
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While the program’s $1 million budget has raised questions about its feasibility, averaging just $1 per trainee, Microsoft maintains that its partnerships with local organizations and existing digital infrastructure will help deliver effective training at scale.
This investment follows similar initiatives by Microsoft in other African countries, including a $1 billion digital infrastructure investment in Kenya and a commitment to train one million South Africans in AI by 2026.
