President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended Google for its interest in advancing artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation in Nigeria, following a high-level meeting with Google CEO Sundar Pichai in Paris, France on Wednesday.
Accompanied by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, President Tinubu engaged in strategic discussions with Google executives to explore a partnership aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s technology-driven growth.
The discussions centered on positioning Nigeria as a leading hub for technology and innovation in Africa, leveraging AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure to boost economic development and global competitiveness.
According to the presidency, key initiatives under consideration include expanding Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, equipping the workforce with critical digital skills, promoting AI-driven research and innovation, encouraging cloud adoption across industries, and strengthening Nigeria’s presence in the global digital economy.
President Tinubu highlighted that the collaboration aligns with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes economic diversification through industrialization, technology, and innovation. The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy will oversee the initiative, with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) coordinating implementation alongside private sector stakeholders.
Google CEO Sundar Pichai reaffirmed the tech giant’s commitment to Nigeria’s digital transformation, stating, “Nigeria has an incredible opportunity to lead in AI and digital innovation in Africa. Google is excited to continue working with the Nigerian government to create an ecosystem that fosters innovation and economic growth.”
Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, described the partnership as a significant step in advancing Nigeria’s technological capabilities. “This collaboration presents a vital opportunity to accelerate our digital economy and ensure AI-driven transformation benefits businesses and citizens alike,” he said.
President Tinubu underscored Nigeria’s potential as a global technology destination and reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment that attracts strategic investments from leading tech firms.
The ongoing discussions are expected to further deepen Nigeria-Google relations, paving the way for sustained digital transformation and economic growth.
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