Google.org has launched Apolitical Government Artificial Intelligence (AI) Campus skills training for Nigerian public servants, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.
The initiative, unveiled on Thursday in Abuja, aims to equip civil servants with practical AI skills and resources to enhance public service delivery and innovation across government agencies.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, said the programme aligns with Nigeria’s vision to make AI a key driver of productivity and efficiency in the public sector.
“We are investing in our civil servants to ensure that AI becomes native to their work processes — helping us shorten administrative time and improve service delivery to citizens.
This is why we are extremely excited about this partnership and Google’s support,” Tijani said.
Google’s West Africa Director, Olumide Balogun, said the company’s investment in the programme reflects its commitment to Nigeria’s digital transformation and human capital development.
“By working hand-in-hand with public sector leaders, we are providing not just technical resources but sharing knowledge that empowers them to deliver better and more efficient government services,” he said.
Balogun added that through AI adoption, Nigerian communities could benefit from smarter governance, improved social outcomes, and greater inclusion in the digital economy.
Vice President at Apolitical, Chris Ferguson, described the initiative as a pioneering effort to help Nigerian public servants lead digital transformation with confidence.
“Structured training is the cornerstone of successful AI adoption in government. The AI Campus will equip civil servants with the skills to integrate AI responsibly and effectively,” Ferguson said.
He noted that the programme is part of a broader effort to expand internet access, support AI innovation hubs, and enhance digital education across Nigeria — all aimed at building a sustainable AI-driven economy.
Google’s Communications and Public Relations Manager, West Africa, Mr. Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, said research by Apolitical shows that while 72 per cent of government leaders globally are running AI pilot projects, more than half lack a comprehensive adoption strategy.
He added that every dollar invested in AI has the potential to add over eight dollars to the economy.
“To seize this opportunity, Nigeria needs an AI-skilled public service that can drive innovation, improve citizen-focused services, and boost economic growth,” Kola-Ogunlade said.
The Apolitical AI Campus will offer government-specific online training covering AI fundamentals, leadership, tools, and frameworks, alongside access to expert-led events. Participants will also join a global community of public sector professionals sharing AI best practices.
