TIME Recognizes Nigeria’s Bosun Tijani Among Global AI Trailblazers of 2025
Dr. Tijani’s recognition on the TIME100 AI list highlights both his influence in shaping Nigeria’s digital transformation and the growing role of African talent in the global AI ecosystem.
Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy , Dr. Bosun Tijani, has been named to the TIME100 AI 2025 list, which recognizes the most influential figures shaping the future of artificial intelligence globally.
A longtime entrepreneur turned policymaker, Dr. Tijani is driving Nigeria’s digital agenda with a startup mindset. At the forefront of his efforts is the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program, an ambitious initiative aimed at equipping three million Nigerians with technical skills by 2027.
“We may not have the compute and infrastructure, but we do have the talent,” Dr. Tijani told TIME.
Since its launch, the 3MTT program has trained nearly 300,000 Nigerians through a blend of digital platforms and 220 in-person learning centers nationwide. Beyond training, the program is also creating pathways to employment by partnering with international organizations and private companies. A United Nations-European Union collaboration, for instance, has enabled fellows to access internships, while local firms such as data labeling company Awarri have begun hiring program graduates.
Dr. Tijani’s recognition on the TIME100 AI list highlights both his influence in shaping Nigeria’s digital transformation and the growing role of African talent in the global AI ecosystem.
