Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a buzzword reserved for future discussions as it is now reshaping the core of business operations across Nigeria. Entrepreneurs and startups are increasingly adopting AI tools to streamline processes, boost productivity, and scale revenue.
One striking example is Kassy Olisakwe, founder of Auroraweb3, a Nigerian startup specializing in decentralized solutions, websites, and business applications. Since launching in 2020, Olisakwe’s company has seen its revenue soar from ₦114 million to over ₦481 million in just six months, a growth he attributes to the strategic adoption of AI tools like Claude, Cursor, ChatGPT, Juro, and Perplexity.
“AI has significantly improved our efficiency, allowing us to handle more projects without compromising on quality,” said Olisakwe. He added that AI has enabled his team to diversify into new sectors such as Web3 investments and trading bot development. Tasks that previously required a team of six can now be managed by as few as one or two developers.
Similar success stories are emerging across Nigeria’s tech landscape. Fadé Adeniyi, co-founder of Techlerator, a recruitment and training agency operating in Nigeria and the UK reported a 65% revenue increase within four months of implementing AI. The company now uses large language models like Llama to deliver training to thousands of learners simultaneously, vastly improving scalability and revenue.
In Lagos, Ogugua Belonwu, CEO of recruitment platform MyJobMag Limited, emphasized how AI has transformed content creation and SEO strategies. By using ChatGPT for content development, his company has significantly reduced costs, saving ₦6 million annually on writer fees while improving their online visibility.
AI also plays a central role in Spitch, a Nigerian startup developing speech-based AI solutions. Its CEO, Temi Babaola, explained that AI helps optimize everything from product design to task management, contributing to a 10% reduction in budgeted costs.
According to a Google report, AI is projected to contribute $15 billion to Nigeria’s GDP by 2030. The GSMA further forecasts a $2.9 trillion boost to Africa’s GDP, with Nigeria set to benefit significantly in sectors like energy, agriculture, and climate action. Startups like ThriveAgric are already using AI to assess farmer creditworthiness, while Hello Tractor connects smallholder farmers with tractor owners using AI-powered logistics.
Despite concerns about job displacement, many Nigerian founders see AI as a tool for workforce amplification rather than replacement. Olisakwe noted that AI enables top professionals to supervise multiple projects while maintaining high standards, resulting in leaner but more effective teams.
Still, companies like MyJobMag are treading cautiously, balancing AI integration with human workforce needs to maintain client trust.
Beyond automation, AI is unlocking new levels of creativity. Mathew Munyao, founder of Kenya-based Attention Media, shared how tools like Grok 3 and DeepThink allow him to explore, research, design, and create media content efficiently and imaginatively.
A recent WEF report reveals that investment in AI technologies has surged nearly eightfold since the release of ChatGPT, with infrastructure developments to support this momentum underway. Fast-growing job roles include AI specialists, big data analysts, fintech engineers, and renewable energy experts.
In Nigeria, AI adoption is high. A 2024 Ipsos and Google survey found that 70% of Nigerians use AI tools like Gemini and ChatGPT—well above the global average of 48%.
To stay ahead, HR experts urge professionals to treat AI as an enabler. Jennifer Oyelade, Director of Transquisite Consulting, advised that industry-specific AI tools be integrated into one’s skillset to boost employability and productivity.
Lagos-based human development researcher Olamide Adeyeye believes specialization will be critical. “The future belongs to those who master specific skills,” he noted.
As AI-powered tools become more advanced and specialized, businesses that embrace these innovations will secure a long-term competitive advantage—those that don’t may risk falling behind.
