Nigeria is stepping further into the AI spotlight. In partnership with Meta, the Federal Government has unveiled a national accelerator programme focused on artificial intelligence — a move designed to nurture homegrown innovations while keeping pace with global trends.
Unveiled through the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, the Nigeria AI Accelerator Programme will be managed by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and its research arm, the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR). Its mission is clear: to support startups using AI to solve real-life issues in agriculture, health, education, and finance.
“This initiative is not just about technology,” said Dr Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications. “It’s about ensuring our innovation economy remains globally competitive and inclusive.”
Global Partnerships Fuel Local Innovation
Applications for the first cohort — scheduled to run from August to December 2025 — are now open. Chosen participants will gain access to technical support, expert mentorship, and global insight from Meta, giving them a much-needed edge in building sustainable AI solutions for Nigeria’s complex needs.
This announcement adds to Nigeria’s growing list of strategic tech partnerships. In 2024, the government teamed up with Google to launch a ₦100 million AI fund for local startups. That was followed by a $1.5 million initiative backed by Luminate. Google also committed $5.8 million to boost AI skills across sub-Saharan Africa, reflecting a broader shift toward building a skilled, future-ready workforce.
Meta’s involvement is expected to bring international best practices into the fold, helping Nigerian innovators stay connected to the evolving AI ecosystem. The programme not only supports local startups but also strengthens Nigeria’s position as a rising AI hub on the continent.
The country’s long-term strategy began in 2023, when it set out to develop a national AI framework that would attract both local and diaspora talent. This new accelerator marks a practical step in that vision — and one that could draw attention from across Africa.
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