Gates Foundation Partners with Nigeria on $7.5M AI Initiative for Socioeconomic Development
The AI Scaling Hub initiative will advance the government’s efforts to identify, develop, and scale high-impact Al solutions that address innovation in these key sectors, as well as position Nigeria as an exemplar for emerging technologies in Africa.
The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy and the Gates Foundation have announced the launch of the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence (AI) Scaling Hub, a new initiative to accelerate the responsible development and scale-up of AI-driven solutions that improve lives and expand opportunity across key sectors such as health, agriculture, and education. This was announced during the Scaling Hub MOU signing ceremony between the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy and Gates Foundation, held in Abuja.
The Nigeria AI Scaling Hub is a multi-stakeholder initiative that will coordinate the scaling of mature AI solutions in the country. The hub will convene government agencies, private sector tech companies, academia, and development partners to support large-scale implementation of mature AI innovations. The Gates Foundation is supporting the Nigeria Scaling Hub with up to $7.5 million commitment over a three-year period.
“By working with the Gates Foundation, we are strengthening our capacity to ensure that AI-driven solutions are developed responsibly and deployed equitably. The AI Scaling Hub will serve as a catalyst for Nigerian innovators — providing the resources, mentorship, and support necessary to translate ideas into impact.”
–Dr. Bosun Tijani, Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, Nigeria
The AI Scaling Hub initiative will advance the government’s efforts to identify, develop, and scale high-impact Al solutions that address innovation in these key sectors, as well as position Nigeria as an exemplar for emerging technologies in Africa.
“AI is transforming how we address development challenges — unlocking new ways to improve lives and strengthen systems. We’re proud to support the Nigeria AI Scaling Hub with the Government of Nigeria and Lagos Business School, investing in local talent and innovation to ensure the benefits of AI reach those who need them most.”
–Uche Amaonwu, Nigeria Country Director, the Gates Foundation
At the meeting, Dr. Tijani highlighted the progress made by the government of Nigeria in the adoption of AI, including the recent drafting of the National AI Strategy developed to ensure its responsible deployment.
As AI technologies continue to evolve, the Nigeria AI Scaling Hub offers a model for how governments and partners can work together to scale innovations that improve health outcomes, enhance education systems, and boost agricultural productivity — ensuring digital transformation benefits all Nigerians.
