Nigeria Aims for Top 50 Global AI Ranking by 2027

Nigeria has set an ambitious goal to rank among the world’s top 50 artificial intelligence-ready nations by 2027. The federal government revealed this plan at a policy colloquium in Abuja, emphasising its commitment to harnessing AI for economic growth and national development.

Hadiza Bala Usman, Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination, stated that AI is no longer a futuristic concept but a present-day reality reshaping economies and governance worldwide. For Nigeria, this technology offers opportunities to enhance public services, strengthen national security, and boost productivity in key sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and education. It could also create new industries and jobs for the country’s youth.

The government’s strategy includes investing in digital infrastructure, talent development, and AI policy frameworks. Initiatives like the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme aim to train Nigerians in critical digital skills, positioning the country as a global hub for tech talent.

This push for AI leadership builds on recent progress. In 2024, Nigeria broke into the top 60 AI-ready nations, thanks to efforts like funding 45 AI startups and supporting AI applications in priority sectors. The upcoming Digital Economy Bill is expected to further strengthen Nigeria’s digital ecosystem by promoting transparency, efficiency, and inclusivity.

Despite these advances, challenges remain, including the need for reliable electricity, data infrastructure, and computing resources. AI data centres, for example, require massive amounts of energy—a hurdle in a country with an unstable power supply.

Nigeria’s AI ambitions align with a broader vision to become a digital powerhouse. By 2025, the government plans to deploy 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic cables to improve connectivity and ensure more Nigerians can access high-quality internet.

The world is watching Nigeria’s AI journey. With continued investment and collaboration, the country hopes to transform its economy and become a leader in artificial intelligence.