Microsoft Invests $1m In AI Skills Training For 1 Million Nigerians
Microsoft has made a significant move towards fostering digital transformation in Nigeria by announcing a $1 million investment aimed at equipping one million Nigerians with artificial intelligence (AI) skills.
The announcement was made during the Microsoft AI Tour held in Lagos on Wednesday, reinforcing the company’s commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s workforce and supporting the country’s digital economy.
The Microsoft AI Tour is a global event series designed to bring together business leaders, technical experts, and AI enthusiasts to explore the growing potential of artificial intelligence. With AI rapidly reshaping industries worldwide, Nigeria is positioned at the forefront of this revolution. The country’s AI market is projected to grow by 27.08% annually from 2025 to 2030, and AI is expected to contribute an estimated $15 billion to Nigeria’s GDP by 2030.
In line with Nigeria’s draft National AI Strategy, which aims to equip 70% of the young workforce with AI-related skills, Microsoft’s AI Skilling Initiative will offer essential AI training in partnership with the Nigerian government. The initiative is designed to bridge the skills gap, improve employability, and prepare the Nigerian workforce for a digital future.
Ola Williams, Managing Director of Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana, commented, “At Microsoft, we believe that AI has the potential to transform economies and societies. Our commitment to enhancing AI skills in Nigeria is a testament to our dedication to empowering individuals and organizations to achieve more. By investing in digital skills training and collaborating with the Nigerian government, we aim to create a future-ready workforce that can drive innovation and economic growth.”
The AI Skilling Initiative will focus on training in AI, digital literacy, and cybersecurity, with a particular emphasis on youth and women. By 2026, Microsoft aims to reach one million Nigerians, including business leaders and senior executives in the public sector. The program will expand on Microsoft’s existing digital skills resources, ensuring that Nigerians—whether citizens, developers, or business leaders—can leverage AI and cloud technologies effectively.
Williams also highlighted that the program aims not just at individual advancement but at uplifting entire communities. “By democratizing access to AI education, we are creating a more inclusive digital future.”
Microsoft has been actively investing in Nigeria’s digital skills development since 2021. In collaboration with the Nigerian government, the Wootlab Foundation, and initiatives like the 3MTT platform, Microsoft has already engaged over four million Nigerians in various digital training programs. Partnerships with organizations like Tech4Dey and the MTN Foundation have also helped provide tailored training for SMEs and women in tech, fostering widespread digital literacy and AI adoption.
The AI Tour in Lagos provided a hands-on experience for business leaders, IT professionals, and developers, featuring expert panels and discussions on how AI can transform business operations and solve complex challenges.
Lillian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa, shared, “Harnessing the transformative power of artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic vision but a tangible reality for organizations seeking exponential growth and optimization. The Microsoft AI Tour is an exciting opportunity for business leaders, technical practitioners, and AI enthusiasts to explore the potential of this transformative technology.”
Through this investment, Microsoft reaffirms its commitment to shaping Nigeria’s technological landscape, driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and preparing a skilled workforce for the future of AI. By investing in the country’s digital future, Microsoft remains a vital partner in unlocking new opportunities and paving the way for an inclusive and advanced digital society.
