President Bola Tinubu has praised Google’s Chief Executive Officer, Sundar Pichai, for the company’s dedication to advancing Artificial Intelligence and digital transformation in Nigeria.
The President made these remarks during a meeting with the Google team in Paris on Wednesday, where he was accompanied by Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani.
The meeting saw constructive discussions aimed at forming a strategic partnership to accelerate Nigeria’s journey towards AI integration and digital innovation.
The collaboration is focused on positioning Nigeria as a leading technology hub in Africa by leveraging AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure to boost economic growth and enhance the country’s global competitiveness.
Key initiatives under discussion include expanding Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, equipping the workforce with critical digital skills, promoting AI-driven research, encouraging cloud adoption across industries, and establishing Nigeria as a key player in the global digital economy.
President Tinubu said that the partnership aligns with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on economic diversification through industrialisation, technology, and innovation.
He noted that the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy will provide strategic oversight, while the National Information Technology Development Agency will coordinate efforts alongside the private sector to ensure broad and meaningful impact.
Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation, saying, “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.”
Minister Bosun Tijani also emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating that it represents a major opportunity for Nigeria to accelerate its technological advancement and strengthen the digital economy.
He further assured that the Nigerian government is committed to ensuring that AI and digital transformation bring tangible benefits to businesses and citizens.
In his remarks, President Tinubu acknowledged Nigeria’s growing potential as a global technology destination and reiterated his commitment to creating a business-friendly environment that attracts investments from leading tech companies.
He expressed gratitude for Google’s ongoing involvement in Nigeria’s digital transformation, which has opened new opportunities for businesses and young talents.
The discussions are expected to continue as both parties work to deepen their collaboration and accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation, paving the way for long-term economic growth and development.
