Microsoft has called on Nigeria to urgently prioritise artificial intelligence ,AI, as a national development strategy, positioning the technology as a powerful tool for addressing widespread socio-economic challenges and reducing inequality.
This appeal follows the launch of a comprehensive new white paper titled “AI in Nigeria”, produced by Microsoft in collaboration with PwC Nigeria and Lagos Business School.
The white paper, unveiled during Microsoft AI Skills Week in Lagos, outlines how AI can be leveraged across critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, finance, and education to drive inclusive growth and innovation.
It stresses that while Nigeria faces significant obstacles in AI adoption — including inadequate infrastructure, limited funding, and a shortage of skilled talent — strategic implementation could help the country unlock transformative opportunities.
Speaking at the launch event, Managing Director of Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana, Ola Williams emphasised that AI is no longer a futuristic concept but a present-day tool that must be embraced to shape Nigeria’s economic future.
She noted that although AI adoption in Nigeria remains at an early stage, growing awareness and global advancements are prompting a shift in mindset. Entrepreneurs, academics, and policymakers are increasingly exploring AI’s potential to solve local problems and fuel growth.
Coinciding with the launch was Microsoft AI Skills Week, a five-day nationwide initiative aimed at equipping business leaders, developers, and everyday users with the skills required to adopt AI technologies.
The event featured live sessions, hands-on workshops, and expert-led discussions designed to deepen understanding and foster practical engagement with AI tools.
Attendees were introduced to key insights from the white paper, which highlights the importance of a data-driven and collaborative approach to scaling AI solutions in Nigeria.
Partner and West Market Area Consulting Risk Services Leader at PwC Nigeria, Olufemi Osinubi underscored the global momentum behind AI adoption.
He stated that for Nigeria to compete and thrive, the country must build trust in AI systems, establish strong regulatory frameworks, and bridge the skills gap through continuous investment in capacity building.
The report showcases encouraging examples of how Nigerian businesses are already using AI to improve service delivery and productivity.
Financial institutions are deploying AI-powered chatbots to manage customer inquiries, while e-commerce platforms like Bumpa are integrating virtual business coaches to support small businesses.
In the agricultural sector, platforms such as Kitovu are using AI to deliver personalised crop analysis and agronomic advice to farmers. These developments reflect the growing role of AI in advancing Nigeria’s digital economy.
However, the white paper also outlines significant challenges that threaten to slow down AI progress. A lack of skilled professionals remains a major hurdle, exacerbated by the ongoing migration of talent to countries with more developed technology ecosystems.
