The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled plans to build a cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) Research Hub, a move aimed at revolutionizing the country’s science, technology, and innovation (STI) landscape.
This ambitious project is set to position Nigeria as a leader in technological innovation across Africa, while fostering global connectivity for Nigerians both locally and in the diaspora.
Strategic Partnership with DAIMLAS Corp
Speaking at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with DAIMLAS Corp, a prominent U.S.-based technology firm, Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, highlighted the groundbreaking nature of the partnership. He stated that the collaboration would leverage AI to enhance national STI resources and drive alignment with Nigeria’s 2017–2030 STI Roadmap.
“This initiative marks a transformative milestone in our journey to harness innovation for sustainable economic growth. The AI-powered platform developed by DAIMLAS Corp will aggregate and verify resources, align state and national STI goals, and foster collaboration between Nigerians at home and abroad,” Nnaji said.
AI Research Hub and NACETEM AI Centre of Excellence
The partnership will facilitate two major projects:
- AI-Powered National STI Platform:
- This centralized hub will serve as a repository for STI resources and stakeholders.
- It will ensure seamless integration between national and state-level STI objectives.
- By connecting Nigerians in the diaspora with local innovators, it aims to foster global collaboration.
- NACETEM AI Centre of Excellence:
- The center will function as a hub for advanced AI research and application.
- It will bring together stakeholders to tackle national challenges and accelerate innovation.
- Both projects will be launched soon, accompanied by nationwide stakeholder outreach.
Funding Model and Economic Implications
The minister emphasized that the project is being funded entirely by DAIMLAS Corp through sponsorships, grants, and private investments. He commended the forward-thinking approach, noting that this model avoids financial strain on government resources while achieving transformative goals.
“This collaboration exemplifies how public-private partnerships can deliver impactful and sustainable solutions. The absence of direct government funding highlights the commitment to innovative financing that benefits the nation,” Nnaji explained.
A Vision for a Competitive STI Ecosystem
Minister Nnaji reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s STI capabilities through this initiative. He assured that the AI Research Hub and the NACETEM AI Centre would serve as cornerstones for a competitive STI ecosystem in Nigeria.
“These partnerships go beyond agreements; they reflect a commitment to leveraging cutting-edge AI technology to empower states, attract global investments, and establish Nigeria as a leader in innovation,” he said.
Driving Transformational Impact Across Sectors
The AI-powered projects are expected to address a wide range of national challenges, accelerate innovation, and create tailored solutions across various sectors. By integrating global expertise and local innovation, the initiatives aim to transform Nigeria’s STI sector into a globally competitive ecosystem.
With these strategic steps, the Federal Government is demonstrating its dedication to harnessing the potential of AI for national development, ensuring Nigeria remains at the forefront of technological advancements in Africa.
