In a major step toward fostering digital transformation, Microsoft has announced a $1million investment to equip one million Nigerians with artificial intelligence (AI) skills.
The initiative, unveiled during the Microsoft AI Tour on Wednesday in Lagos, reinforced the company’s commitment to empowering Nigeria’s workforce and supporting the country’s digital economy.
The Microsoft AI Tour is a global event series that brings together business leaders, technical experts, and AI enthusiasts to explore the vast potential of artificial intelligence. As AI continues to reshape industries worldwide, Nigeria stands at the forefront of this revolution, with its AI market projected to grow by 27.08 per cent annually from 2025 to 2030. With the right skills and technology access, AI is expected to contribute an estimated $15 billion to Nigeria’s GDP by 2030.
In alignment with Nigeria’s draft National AI Strategy, which aims to equip 70 per cent of the young workforce with AI-related skills, Microsoft’s AI Skilling Initiative will provide essential AI training in collaboration with the Nigerian government. The investment is designed to bridge the skills gap, enhance employability, and prepare Nigeria’s workforce for the digital future.
Managing director of Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana, Ola Williams, said: “At Microsoft, we believe that AI has the potential to transform economies and societies. Our commitment to enhancing Al skills in Nigeria is a testament to our dedication to empowering individuals and organisations to achieve more. By investing in digital skills training and collaborating with the Nigerian government, we aim to create a future-ready workforce that can drive innovation and economic growth in the country.”
The initiative will support various skilling programmes, with a strong focus on AI, digital literacy, and cybersecurity training, particularly for youth and women. The program will expand Microsoft’s existing skilling resources, ensuring that Nigerian citizens, developers, and business leaders can leverage AI and cloud technologies effectively.
By 2026, Microsoft aims to reach one million Nigerians, including business leaders and senior executives in the public sector. This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s national priorities to boost economic growth, drive industrialisation, foster technological advancement, and invest in digital enterprises.
“The launch of this AI skilling initiative is not just about individual advancement; it’s about uplifting entire communities. By democratizing access to AI education, we are creating a more inclusive digital future,” Williams emphasised.
Since 2021, Microsoft has actively invested in Nigeria’s digital skills development. Through partnerships with the Nigerian government, Wootlab Foundation, and initiatives such as the 3MTT platform, the company has engaged over four million Nigerians in digital training programs. Collaborations with Tech4Dey and the MTN Foundation have also enabled Microsoft to provide tailored training for SMEs and women in tech, ensuring widespread digital literacy and AI adoption.
The Microsoft AI Tour in Lagos provided a platform for business leaders, IT professionals, and developers to gain hands-on experience with AI technologies. Featuring expert panels and discussions with Microsoft’s leadership, the event showcased AI’s role in business transformation and problem-solving.
President of Microsoft Africa, Lillian Barnard, added: “Harnessing the transformative power of artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic vision, but a tangible reality for organisations seeking to achieve exponential growth and optimisation. Microsoft believes that understanding the impact of Al on business goes beyond mere business acumen. LeaderS need to be adept at launching, supporting, and evaluating AI initiatives in alignment with strategic business objectives. The Microsoft AI Tour is an exciting opportunity for business leaders, technical practitioners, and Al enthusiasts to be together and explore the phenomenal potential of this transformative technology.”
Through this investment and ongoing initiatives, Microsoft reaffirms its unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s digital future. By fostering innovation, driving economic growth, and enhancing AI skills development, Microsoft remains a trusted partner in shaping Nigeria’s technological landscape, unlocking new opportunities, and paving the way for a more inclusive and advanced digital society.
