From Victor Osula, Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended Google’s Chief Executive Officer, Sundar Pichai, for the company’s commitment to advancing Artificial Intelligence and digital transformation in Nigeria.
Tinubu gave the commendation on Wednesday in Paris, France, during a meeting with the Google team, accompanied by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the discussions with Google focused on forging a strategic partnership to accelerate Nigeria’s adoption of AI and digital technologies.
According to the statement, the collaboration aims to position Nigeria as a leading hub for technology and innovation, leveraging AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure to drive economic growth and enhance global competitiveness.
Key areas of focus include expanding Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, equipping the workforce with essential digital skills, fostering AI-driven research and innovation, increasing cloud adoption across industries, and integrating Nigeria into the global digital economy.
Tinubu emphasised that the partnership aligns with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes economic diversification through industrialization, technology, and innovation.
He noted that the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy will oversee the initiative, while the National Information Technology Development Agency will coordinate efforts with the private sector to ensure meaningful impact.
Speaking at the meeting, Google CEO Sundar Pichai reaffirmed the company’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.”
On his part, Dr. Tijani described the partnership as a significant step towards accelerating Nigeria’s technological advancement and strengthening its digital economy. He stressed that the government is committed to ensuring that AI and digital transformation translate into tangible benefits for businesses and citizens.
President Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s potential as a rising global technology destination and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment that attracts strategic investments from leading tech companies. He also lauded Google’s contributions to Nigeria’s digital transformation and its efforts to unlock new opportunities for businesses and young talents.
Onanuga disclosed that discussions will continue as both parties explore ways to deepen their collaboration and fast-track Nigeria’s digital transformation, paving the way for sustainable economic growth.
