Following criticism surrounding the recent launch of a ₦100 million (~$61,000) AI fund in collaboration with Google, the Nigerian government has announced a more substantial initiative. A new $1.5 million fund, supported by the Luminate Foundation, will be launched on October 7th in Abuja to foster the growth of the country’s burgeoning AI sector.
This move underscores the Nigerian government’s commitment to nurturing a thriving AI ecosystem. While the initial ₦100 million fund faced criticism for its perceived inadequacy, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, emphasized that the focus should extend beyond the monetary value. He highlighted the importance of broader government support and the ongoing efforts to secure additional resources for AI development.
The new $1.5 million fund will provide crucial support to Nigerian AI startups, enabling them to develop innovative solutions and contribute to the nation’s economic growth. Furthermore, the government is actively working on establishing a National Artificial Intelligence Trust in collaboration with AI Collaborative. This trust will play a vital role in ensuring the ethical, safe, and sustainable development of AI within Nigeria, prioritizing the incorporation of local languages into AI development.
This initiative builds upon previous efforts, including the launch of AI Collective, a community of practice aimed at fostering collaboration and driving inclusive AI development across various sectors. Luminate, a global foundation, has pledged its support to this initiative, enabling AI Collective to leverage expertise from diverse stakeholders, including civil society, academia, and the tech industry.
The Nigerian government’s proactive approach to AI development reflects its recognition of the transformative potential of this technology. By fostering a supportive environment for AI innovation and prioritizing ethical considerations, Nigeria aims to position itself as a leader in the global AI landscape.
