Microsoft to invest $1 million in training one million Nigerians on AI

• Microsoft plans to invest $1 million in training one million Nigerians on Artificial Intelligence
• It said the initiative is aimed at positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global AI ecosystem
• Microsoft said accelerating AI adoption in Nigeria is critical to its African efforts  

Microsoft has announced plans to invest $1 million over the next two years to accelerate Artificial Intelligence (AI) skill development for one million Nigerians.

Microsoft’s Country Manager for Nigeria, Ola Williams, disclosed this on Wednesday, February 19, during the launch of the Microsoft AI Tour in Lagos.

Williams stressed that the initiative is aimed at positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global AI ecosystem by equipping individuals with the expertise to harness AI for innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic competitiveness.

She noted that the AI skilling programme is designed for leaders, developers, young professionals, and government officials.

“This is a strategic investment to ensure that Nigerians have access to the critical skills needed not just to use AI but to develop cutting-edge solutions and build AI-driven businesses that provide sustainable livelihoods,” she said.

Williams noted that the presence of Microsoft’s African leadership at the tour highlights the significance of the programme and the commitment of Microsoft to AI development in Nigeria.

She added that Microsoft will continue working with stakeholders to ensure widespread access to the training platform.

“Their presence underscores the importance of this initiative and reflects our leaders’ level of commitment.

“It also demonstrates Microsoft’s confidence in Nigeria and AI’s potential to transform lives, businesses, startups, and enterprises.

“We will continue to partner with stakeholders to ensure that this skilling platform remains accessible to everyone eager to take advantage of it,” she said.

Nigeria critical to AI adoption in Africa

President of Microsoft Africa, Lillian Barnard, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stressing that AI’s expansion in Nigeria is critical to the adoption of the technology in Africa.

“I am personally excited about bringing AI to Nigeria. We’ve seen AI adoption growing globally, but it’s critical to focus on Africa, which is my area of responsibility.

“Our key markets—Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, and Kenya—are central to this effort,” Barnard said.

Barnard said the move is significant to Microsoft’s plan to align its Africa strategy with its global mission of empowering individuals and organizations through technology.

“Our vision for Africa is centred on driving inclusive, sustainable economic growth by leveraging Microsoft’s technology to create new opportunities.

“During the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the digital transformation era, Africa participated, but not in a bold way. Now, with the Fifth Industrial Revolution—centred on AI—we see a chance to accelerate our progress,” she added.

Barnard further noted that Microsoft’s approach to digital education has evolved, and shifted from basic digital literacy to advanced technical skills.

She stated that it is partnering with stakeholders in finance, government, and other industry leaders to harness AI potential in Nigeria.

She added, “Now, our skilling efforts are centred on AI, given the rising demand for AI-related jobs. Many of these positions remain unfilled due to a lack of skilled professionals, and it is crucial that we equip Africa’s youth with the right tools to seize these opportunities.

“There is a lot of exciting work happening in Nigeria, especially in the financial services sector. We are working closely with banks and other partners to harness AI’s potential. I am excited about Nigeria’s contributions to the broader African AI narrative and how our local team will help lead this transformation.”

Microsoft integrates Copilot, Designer into Microsoft 365 for all subscribers

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that Microsoft announced the integration of its AI-powered tools, Microsoft Copilot and Microsoft Designer, into its Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscription plans. 

The move significantly broadens access to the company’s advanced AI technologies.