By comfort asemota
Microsoft, in partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria, Lagos Business School (LBS), and Data Science Nigeria, has successfully trained over 350,000 Nigerians in artificial intelligence (AI) skills through its AI National Skills Initiative (AINSI). This milestone highlights Nigeria’s growing commitment to building a digitally skilled workforce ready to thrive in the AI-driven economy.
Since 2021, Microsoft’s collaboration with the Nigerian government has provided digital training to over four million people, demonstrating a strong track record in supporting national technology development.
Abideen Yusuf, General Manager of Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana, emphasized the urgency of the initiative: “Nigeria cannot afford to wait. AI is reshaping every sector, and the countries that move fastest on skills will lead. We must equip people now, at scale and with intent, so the immense opportunity presented by AI doesn’t pass us by.”
Olayinka David-West, Dean of Lagos Business School, highlighted the importance of AI skills for national competitiveness: “AI skilling is no longer optional for Nigeria’s digital future; it is the foundation of our competitiveness. Equipping leaders and citizens with AI capabilities is essential for driving inclusive growth, innovation, and national transformation.”
The second phase of the Nigeria AI skilling programme, launched in January, aims to reach one million citizens over three years, embedding AI skills across every sector and strengthening national competitiveness.
In addition to public training, AINSI has advanced ethical and inclusive AI leadership in the public sector. Working with LBS, the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, Microsoft has trained 99 public sector leaders, including members of the National Assembly and senior executives from 58 ministries and agencies. The sessions focused on AI-powered reporting and sector-specific strategies.
Dr. Bayo Adekanmbi, CEO and Founder of Data Science Nigeria, stressed the importance of ecosystem-wide collaboration: “Our partnership with Microsoft shows that AI readiness requires coordinated investment across government, educators, developers, and communities. By building capacity for responsible innovation, evidence-driven governance, and community adoption, we are laying the foundation for a globally competitive workforce. True digital transformation happens when the entire ecosystem moves forward together.”
The initiative underscores Nigeria’s determination to equip its citizens with the skills necessary to compete in a global AI economy, bridging the digital skills gap and fostering inclusive growth.
