Nigeria Launches AI Collective to Power Innovation

Nigeria Launches AI Collective Ecosystem to Power Inclusive Innovation

In a groundbreaking step toward redefining the future of Artificial Intelligence in Africa, Nigeria has officially launched the AI Collective Ecosystem, a first-of-its-kind national community of practice focused on driving inclusive AI innovation, cross-sector collaboration, and sustainable development.

The launch brought together over 70 top AI leaders from tech-driven companies, startups, professional bodies, and enablers who gathered in Lagos to champion the country’s bold AI vision.

Government-Backed, Industry-Driven

The event was headlined by the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, who reiterated the government’s commitment to using AI as a tool for economic transformation, resilience, and national inclusion.

“The National AI Strategy was developed through an open, collaborative process involving government, academia, and industry,” said Dr. Tijani. “It reflects a distinctly Nigerian approach—locally relevant, globally aligned.”

The Minister’s presence underscored the public-private synergy at the heart of Nigeria’s AI agenda.

The Role of the Nigeria AI Collective

At the core of this movement is the Nigeria AI Collective, implemented by Data Science Nigeria and led by its CEO, Dr. Olubayo Adekanmbi. In his address, he emphasised the Collective’s strategic pillars:

• Research and development
• Sector-specific innovation
• Policy advocacy
• Global partnerships

“The AI Collective will catalyse sectoral transformation,” Dr. Adekanmbi noted. “We invite sector champions across industries like telecoms, real estate, healthcare, fintech, and creative economy to lead the charge.”

Launch of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy

A major highlight of the event was the official unveiling of Nigeria’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, a 12-goal, 34-initiative blueprint to embed AI into critical sectors and establish Nigeria as a continental AI powerhouse.

Professor Yinka David-West, Dean of Lagos Business School, outlined the strategy’s key focus areas:

• Technical excellence
• Talent development
• Collaborative innovation

“This is not just a policy,” she stated. “It’s a transformative agenda designed to fuel economic growth and social impact.”

Four Transformative Initiatives Announced

To operationalise the strategy and scale AI adoption, four flagship programs were unveiled:

1. Nigerian AI Collective Executive Series
   A 13-part video masterclass for business leaders and executives to unlock the power of AI in driving productivity and sectoral growth.
   Watch the series
2. Nigeria AI Collective Diaspora-Connect
   A digital bridge fostering collaboration between Nigeria’s AI talent at home and abroad.
3. Nigerian AI Repository
   A comprehensive, searchable directory of AI innovations, use cases, datasets, technologies, events, and key milestones within Nigeria’s AI ecosystem.
4. Sectorial AI Networks
   Targeted communities to promote peer learning, policy dialogue, and scalable industry-specific innovation.

A National Movement Begins

This launch is more than a milestone; it’s the beginning of a national AI movement. The AI Collective brings together Nigeria’s brightest minds, influential stakeholders, and visionary policymakers in a shared mission to leverage AI for real-world solutions.

As Nigeria advances toward becoming a regional AI leader, the AI Collective will play a critical role in shaping policies, building talent, and promoting innovation that reflects the country’s unique challenges and aspirations.

“The true power of this ecosystem lies in what we can achieve—together,” said Dr. Adekanmbi.

Stay Connected

Follow the Nigeria AI Collective on social media:

• LinkedIn: @Nigeria AI Collective
• X (Twitter): @aicollectiveng
• Instagram: @aicollectiveng
• YouTube: @aicollectiveng