ABUJA, Nigeria — The Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, has launched the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence (AI) Scaling Hub — a landmark initiative aimed at accelerating the responsible deployment of AI technologies in health, education, and agriculture.
The project was formally unveiled on Monday, June 2, 2025, during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and the Gates Foundation in Abuja.
The hub is backed by a $7.5 million investment from the foundation, to be disbursed over three years.
According to the ministry, the AI Scaling Hub will focus on supporting Nigerian innovators and deploying mature AI solutions that improve public services and create economic opportunities, particularly for underserved communities.
“By working with the Gates Foundation, we are strengthening our capacity to ensure that AI-driven solutions are developed responsibly and deployed equitably,” said Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani.
“The AI Scaling Hub will serve as a catalyst for Nigerian innovators — providing the resources, mentorship, and support necessary to translate ideas into impact.”
Uche Amaonwu, Nigeria Country Director at the Gates Foundation, underscored the importance of inclusive technology.
“We’re proud to support the Nigeria AI Scaling Hub with the Government of Nigeria and Lagos Business School, investing in local talent and innovation to ensure the benefits of AI reach those who need them most,” Amaonwu said.
The launch of the hub follows the introduction of Nigeria’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in April.
