President Bola Tinubu has praised Google CEO Sundar Pichai for the company’s commitment to advancing artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation in Nigeria.
Tinubu met with the Google team in Paris on Wednesday, joined by Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy Bosun Tijani, according to a statement from presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga.
The discussions centred on a strategic partnership to position Nigeria as a leading technology hub, leveraging AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure to drive economic growth and global competitiveness.
Key areas of focus included expanding Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, equipping the workforce with essential digital skills, promoting AI-driven research and innovation, and encouraging cloud adoption across industries.
Tinubu highlighted that the collaboration aligns with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises economic diversification through technology and innovation. The Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy will oversee the initiative, while the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) will coordinate efforts with the private sector.
Pichai reaffirmed Google’s commitment, stating that Nigeria has the potential to lead AI and digital innovation in Africa. “Google is excited to work with the Nigerian government to foster innovation and economic growth,” he said.
Tijani described the partnership as a crucial step in accelerating Nigeria’s technological progress, ensuring AI and digital transformation bring tangible benefits to businesses and citizens.
Credit: NAN (Text Excluding Headline)
