Google.org, in collaboration with Apolitical’s Government Artificial Intelligence (AI) Campus, has launched a new skills development programme aimed at equipping Nigerian public servants with practical AI knowledge to enhance governance and service delivery.
The initiative was unveiled on Thursday in Abuja as part of a partnership between Google and the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.
The programme is designed to provide government officials with a comprehensive suite of training resources and digital tools to strengthen their understanding and application of AI in public administration.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, highlighted the importance of AI proficiency in modern governance, describing it as a key driver of productivity across various sectors.
He noted that the Federal Government has been investing in initiatives that will enable civil servants to adopt AI tools seamlessly in daily operations.
“We are committed to integrating AI into the public service to make processes faster, more efficient, and more responsive to citizens’ needs,” Tijani said. “This partnership with Google aligns perfectly with our goal of accelerating digital transformation in government.”
Speaking on Google’s commitment to the programme, Olumide Balogun, Google’s Director for West Africa, said the initiative reflects the company’s dedication to supporting Nigeria’s digital evolution by empowering the people shaping its future.
Balogun explained that Google will collaborate closely with public sector leaders and practitioners to provide both technical resources and practical knowledge that will improve government service delivery.
He added that leveraging AI will enable Nigerian communities to develop smarter solutions, achieve better social outcomes, and foster inclusive participation in the digital economy.
Chris Ferguson, Vice President at Apolitical, described the initiative as a groundbreaking step toward building an AI-competent public service in Nigeria.
“This programme will empower Nigerian public servants with the skills and confidence to lead digital transformation across government institutions,” Ferguson said. “It also aligns with our wider mission to support AI adoption, expand internet access, and strengthen digital education across the continent.”
Google’s Communications and Public Relations Manager for West Africa, Mr. Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, also noted that AI is emerging as a powerful catalyst for Nigeria’s digital progress.
He cited research from Apolitical showing that while 72 percent of government leaders globally are running AI pilot projects, many lack a structured approach for full-scale adoption.
According to him, every dollar invested in AI could potentially generate over eight dollars in economic value.
“To fully tap into this potential, Nigeria needs a public service that is skilled in AI to drive innovation, improve citizen-centered governance, and foster sustainable growth,” he said.
Participants in the programme will gain access to online courses tailored for government use — covering AI fundamentals, leadership, and ethics — as well as expert-led workshops, toolkits, and global best practices shared through the AI in Government community.
Through this initiative, Nigeria aims to empower its public servants to harness emerging technologies for improved service delivery, stronger institutions, and long-term national development.