The Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with the Gates Foundation, has launched the Nigerian Artificial Intelligence (AI) Scaling Hub to drive innovation in agriculture, education, and health.

The program was revealed on Monday during the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Gates Foundation and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy in Abuja.

According to the ministry, the hub is supported by a $7.5 million commitment from the Gates Foundation over three years. The ministry said the hub is expected to deploy mature AI solutions that improve lives and create opportunities for Nigerians.

At the ceremony, Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, said the partnership will help Nigeria develop AI responsibly and support innovators in turning ideas into impact.

“By working with the Gates Foundation, we are strengthening our capacity to ensure that AI-driven solutions are developed responsibly and deployed equitably,” the minister said.

“The AI Scaling Hub will catalyse Nigerian innovators, providing the resources, mentorship, and support necessary to translate ideas into impact”.

Uche Amaonwu, the Gates Foundation’s Nigeria country director, said the partnership reflects a commitment to ensuring that AI benefits reach underserved communities.

“We’re proud to support the Nigeria AI Scaling Hub with the Government of Nigeria and Lagos Business School, investing in local talent and innovation to ensure the benefits of AI reach those who need them most,” he added.

The inauguration of the scaling hub follows the announcement of Nigeria’s National AI Strategy in April.

According to the ministry, the policy aims to serve as a model for other African countries and contribute to the continent’s economic progress.

Source: TheCable

Image Credit: TV360 Nigeria