Google Funds N3 Billion Programmes to Train Nigerians for Digital Job Opportunities
- Google.org has committed N3 billion to advance Nigeria’s digital transformation through AI talent development and improved digital safety
- The funding from Google will support programmes that will enhance cybersecurity and expand youth-focused digital safety initiatives
- The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s National AI Strategy and aims to help unlock an estimated $15 billion in economic value by 2030
Legit.ng journalist Victor Enengedi has over a decade's experience covering Energy, MSMEs, Technology, Banking and the Economy.
Google, through its philanthropic arm, Google.org, has committed N3 billion to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation.
The investment, unveiled by Google’s West Africa director, Olumide Balogun, during a media roundtable in Lagos, focuses on two core areas: developing advanced artificial intelligence (AI) talent and improving digital safety nationwide.
Source: Getty Images
Balogun noted that the initiative supports Nigeria’s ambition to lead in digital innovation, aligning with the country’s National AI Strategy and the federal government’s goal of creating one million digital jobs.
Citing research from Public First, he explained that AI could unlock as much as $15 billion in economic value for Nigeria by 2030.
According to him, the dual emphasis on skill development and online safety is designed to ensure that growth driven by technology remains both inclusive and resilient.
Balogun said:
“Google has been a foundational partner in Nigeria’s digital journey, and this N3 billion commitment is the next chapter in that story.
“This is an investment in people, aimed at empowering them with advanced AI skills and ensuring a safe digital space to operate."
He also highlighted that the initiative builds on past efforts such as the Equiano subsea cable and the 2023 ‘Skills Sprint’ programme, an N1.2 billion effort executed with Mind the Gap, which trained nearly 21,000 people in tech and AI, including more than 5,000 women.
According to TheCable, of those trained, over 3,500 participants successfully moved into employment, internships, or entrepreneurial opportunities.
Also, Google earlier released about N259 million to help startups in Nigeria and other parts of Africa with technology to solve complex local problems.
Boosting AI talent and strengthening digital security
The new funding will be channelled through five expert organisations to deepen AI expertise across the region.
Balogun explained that FATE Foundation, working with the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS), will introduce an advanced AI curriculum into university programmes.
The African Technology Forum (ATF) will also launch an innovation challenge aimed at helping developers transition from training to practical product development.
In addition, Junior Achievement (JA) Africa will expand its ‘Be Internet Awesome’ digital safety programme for young learners, while the CyberSafe Foundation will support public institutions in improving cybersecurity practices.
Representing the partner organisations, Adenike Adeyemi, executive director of FATE Foundation, expressed pride in the collaboration with AIMS and Google.org.
She said the initiative addresses a critical gap in deep AI skills across Africa and will enhance the capabilities of universities, lecturers, and students in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa.
Source: Getty Images
Adeyemi noted that the project aligns closely with FATE Foundation’s mission to foster innovation, drive sustainable economic growth, and position the continent for leadership in the global technology landscape.
Google funds Nigerian startups with N3 billion
According to a report by Legit.ng, Google announced a N3 billion funding boost for Nigerian startups as part of its latest support for Black founders.
10 Nigerian companies were selected among 40 global tech firms chosen to receive a share of the $4 million Google for Startups Black Founders Fund.
Sponsored by Google for Startups, the fund aims to empower Black-led tech ventures with financial backing and business support to accelerate their growth.
Source: Legit.ng
