Microsoft has announced a $1 million investment over the next two years to accelerate artificial intelligence skill development for one million Nigerians. The initiative aims to foster digital innovation and economic empowerment across the country.
The announcement was made by Microsoft’s Country Manager for Nigeria, Ola Williams, during the launch of the Microsoft AI Tour in Lagos on Wednesday. Williams described the investment as a strategic move to equip Nigerians with critical AI skills, enabling them to develop cutting-edge solutions and build AI-driven businesses.
“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,” Williams stated.
She emphasized that the initiative is designed to position Nigeria as a key player in the global AI ecosystem by providing expertise that fosters innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic competitiveness.
Describing the programme as a historic moment for Microsoft in Nigeria, Williams highlighted the presence of Microsoft’s African leadership as a testament to its significance.
“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,” she added.
The AI skilling program will cater to leaders, developers, young professionals, and government officials. Microsoft will collaborate with stakeholders to ensure widespread access to training opportunities.
“We will continue to partner with stakeholders to ensure that this skilling platform remains accessible to everyone eager to take advantage of it,” Williams said.
The investment aligns with Nigeria’s broader efforts to drive digital transformation and position itself as a leader in Africa’s technology-driven economy.
President of Microsoft Africa, Lillian Barnard, also expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, noting the growing adoption of AI globally and its importance to Africa’s development.
“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 stated.
Microsoft has operated in Africa for over 30 years, but it was only two years ago that the company unified the continent under a single leadership team. Barnard described this move as a significant step in aligning Microsoft’s 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.
Microsoft is committed to working with governments, businesses, and individuals to integrate AI across various sectors, particularly in Nigeria’s financial services industry.
The company has already launched similar AI skilling programs in South Africa as part of its AI Tour, reinforcing its long-term investment in African talent development.
Barnard noted that Microsoft’s approach to digital education has evolved, shifting from basic digital literacy to advanced technical skills.
“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,” she said.
Microsoft’s strategy includes AI skilling, infrastructure investments, and collaborations with industry leaders.
“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,” Barnard concluded.
