In a pioneering stride, the Nigerian government has unveiled a strategic blueprint designed to tap into the game-changing prowess of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to catalyze the nation’s economic progression. Bosun Tijani, the country’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, announced on October 13 that the government plans to distribute grants amounting to 5 million naira (approximately $6,4m) to 45 AI-centric startups and researchers.
This significant disclosure, communicated through a tweet on the social media platform X (previously known as Twitter), constitutes an integral part of the freshly launched Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme. The main aim of this move is to promote and accelerate the broad using of AI to fuel the country’s economic advancement.
As detailed on the scheme’s official web portal, several pivotal sectors have been earmarked for this initiative. These include various sectors, from agriculture to healthcare and education. In order to qualify for the grant, it is mandatory for applicants to establish a consortium, which needs to encompass a startup or a tech enterprise and a scholar either from a Nigerian university or from an international institution.
Potential recipients are required to put forth a research proposal that aligns with the AI-centric domains outlined by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy. Furthermore, they are asked to deliver an extensive proposal that emphasizes the possible economic influence their project could exert on Nigeria.
Tijani said: “This initiative embodies our dedication to leveraging AI’s power for our economic upliftment. We have confidence in the ingenuity and innovative spirit of our startups and investigators, and we anticipate that our backing will catalyze substantial progress in the AI sphere.“
The Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme represents a significant step towards incorporating AI into Nigeria’s economic strategy. By creating an environment conducive to AI research and development, Nigeria is setting the stage for technological breakthroughs that could revolutionize various sectors and stimulate economic growth.
With this initiative, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leader in AI research in Africa. It sends a clear signal that the country is ready to harness the transformative power of AI, using it to foster innovation, improve services, and ultimately enhance the well-being of its citizens.
