Google announces N3bn funding to boost digital safety in Nigeria

Google, through its philanthropic arm Google.org, has announced a N3 billion (US$2.1 million) commitment to support Nigeria’s digital transformation through a two-pronged initiative focused on advanced AI training and strengthening digital safety.

The announcement was made on Friday by Google’s Director for West Africa, Olumide Balogun, during a media roundtable in Lagos.

Balogun said the funding aligns with Nigeria’s National AI Strategy and the federal government’s target of creating one million digital jobs. He noted that Nigeria stands to unlock an estimated $15 billion in economic value from AI by 2030, according to research by Public First.

He explained that Google’s investment is designed to equip Nigerians with advanced AI skills while also ensuring a secure online environment. This, he said, builds on Google’s long-standing support for Nigeria’s digital ecosystem, including major infrastructure projects like the Equiano subsea cable and initiatives such as the 2023 “Skills Sprint” programme, which trained over 20,900 Nigerians in AI and technology.

The N3 billion fund will be channelled through five expert organisations. FATE Foundation, in partnership with the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS), will embed advanced AI curricula into universities. The African Technology Forum (ATF) will drive an innovation challenge to help developers translate their learning into real-world solutions.

To enhance digital safety, Junior Achievement (JA) Africa will expand the “Be Internet Awesome” curriculum for young people, while CyberSafe Foundation will support public institutions in strengthening cybersecurity practices.

Speaking on behalf of the partner organisations, FATE Foundation’s Executive Director, Adenike Adeyemi, said the initiative responds to the urgent need for deep AI competencies across Africa. She added that the programme will empower universities, lecturers, and students in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa, aligning with FATE Foundation’s mission to drive innovation and sustainable economic growth on the continent.