Google launches AI training for Nigerian civil servants

Global tech giant Google has launched a new Artificial Intelligence, AI, training initiative to equip Nigerian public servants with essential digital skills for the future of governance.

The programme, developed in partnership with Apolitical and Nigeria’s Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, introduces the Government AI Campus, a hub designed to help civil servants understand and apply AI in public administration.

Speaking at the unveiling in Abuja, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, said AI skills were becoming central to effective governance. He noted that Nigeria was deliberately investing in capacity building to make AI “native” to public service operations.

“We are putting resources into ensuring that our civil servants can use AI to improve public administration, accelerate service delivery, and increase productivity,” Tijani said. “This partnership with Google is an important step toward that goal.”

The initiative will provide public servants with access to AI-focused online training, expert-led workshops, and global networking opportunities with other government professionals. Courses will cover AI fundamentals, ethics, leadership, and tools for public sector innovation.

Olumide Balogun, Google’s West Africa Director, said the company’s support reflected its belief that digital transformation begins with people. “By working hand-in-hand with public sector leaders, we’re sharing technical expertise to help them deliver smarter, more efficient services,” he said.

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Balogun added that well-trained civil servants could drive AI-led solutions that improve governance, social inclusion, and economic outcomes across Nigeria.

Chris Ferguson, Vice President at Apolitical, described the initiative as a landmark moment for AI adoption in the Nigerian public sector. He said the training would empower government workers to lead digital transformation “with confidence and foresight.”

“This programme builds on years of collaboration to expand internet access, support local AI hubs, and improve digital education,” Ferguson noted, emphasizing its role in strengthening Nigeria’s AI ecosystem.

Google’s Public Relations Manager for West Africa, Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, also highlighted findings from Apolitical’s research showing that while 72% of government leaders globally are experimenting with AI, many still lack a clear adoption strategy.

He explained that every dollar invested in AI could yield over eight times its value in economic growth, underscoring the urgency for Nigeria to build an AI-skilled civil service capable of driving innovation and citizen-centered governance.

Through this collaboration, Nigeria joins a growing number of countries prioritizing AI literacy in government, marking a step toward smarter, data-driven, and more responsive public administration.

[NAN]

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