FG Commissions Free Artificial Intelligence Centre

By Ayodele Oni

To further boost digital economy, the Federal Government on Thursday   unveiled a free Artificial Intelligence (AI) Academy with the aim of positioning Nigeria as a leader in the global digital economy.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, who inaugurated the AI Academy in Abuja, said the programme is set up in partnership with the Commonwealth Secretariat and Intel Corporation.

While emphasising that the online programme is free, the minister called on all Nigerians particularly students, youths and civil servants to avail themselves of the opportunity to be part of a movement that would redefine the future of the nation.

According to the Minister, registration for the free AI Academy will open next week Thursday and it is expected to close by January 30.

“The AI Academy is not just a training platform but a transformative opportunity for Nigerians–students, youths and civil servants–to acquire critical skills in AI.

“In a world where AI is reshaping industries, solving complex problems and creating new economic frontiers, it is imperative that Nigeria not only keeps pace, but leads the charge.”

The Minister explained that the programme would provide participants with access to self-paced courses on AI fundamentals, ethics, tools and real-world applications.

He added that beyond learning the AI Technology, it offers opportunities to compete for AI ambassadorial roles and internships with Intel Corporation, as well as ensuring hands-on global experience.

Nnaji said that the role of AI in nation-building could not be over emphasised as AI was no longer a distant concept.

He described it as a transformative tool that could drive progress in agriculture, healthcare, education, security and many other sectors.

“By equipping Nigerians with these skills, we are not just preparing individuals for jobs but creating a pipeline of innovators, problem-solvers and leaders who will shape Nigeria’s technological and economic destiny.

“Most importantly, AI will go a long way to help us develop innovative solutions for the unique challenges we face as a nation.

“Since the beginning of the President Bola Tinubu’s administration, there has been a lot of focus on AI spearheaded by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.”

The Minister, stressed that all the efforts are geared towards positioning Nigeria as AI leader in Africa and ensuring that the country does not miss the benefits of the global AI revolution.

To that effect, the Communications Ministry recently released the country’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy document, which is currently being reviewed by MDAs. It will be adopted as a national policy to guide all government efforts in Al.