Google.org has announced the launch of the Apolitical Government Artificial Intelligence (AI) Campus in Nigeria, a pioneering global hub dedicated to advancing AI skills within the public sector.
The initiative, unveiled in Abuja on Thursday, comes through a partnership with the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the AI Campus will offer public servants a comprehensive suite of hands-on training and practical resources tailored to improve governance through AI-driven solutions.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, underscored the importance of integrating AI into public administration, describing it as a vital tool for driving national productivity. “We have been putting resources into ensuring that we can support our civil servants and our public service in a manner that AI can become something that is native to them,” Tijani said. He added that the technology would help “accelerate and shorten the time we spend on administrating our processes” and enhance government service delivery to citizens.
Olumide Balogun, Google’s West Africa Director, explained that the company’s motivation stems from its commitment to Nigeria’s digital future. He said the initiative aligns with Google’s broader goal of empowering public sector leaders with the technical resources and expertise necessary to drive efficient governance. “We are not only providing technical resources but sharing knowledge that empowers them to deliver better, more efficient government services,” he stated.
Chris Ferguson, Vice President at Apolitical, described the initiative as a “pioneering effort” that would enable Nigerian public servants to lead digital transformation with “confidence and foresight.” He noted that the project aligns with ongoing efforts to expand internet access, nurture AI innovation hubs, and strengthen digital education across Nigeria.
He emphasized that structured training would serve as the cornerstone for the effective adoption of AI in governance, allowing civil servants to use technology to improve public outcomes and strengthen inclusion in the country’s evolving digital landscape.
Similarly, Google’s Communications and Public Relations Manager for West Africa, Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, highlighted AI’s potential to reshape Nigeria’s economy. Citing research from Apolitical, he noted that while 72 percent of government leaders were already experimenting with AI pilots, many still lacked a clear, cohesive strategy for full-scale implementation.
Kola-Ogunlade added that every dollar invested in AI could potentially yield more than eight dollars in economic value. “To seize this opportunity, Nigeria needs an AI-skilled public service that can accelerate innovation, improve citizen-centered services, and contribute to sustainable economic growth,” he said.
Public servants participating in the program will have access to specialized online training modules covering AI fundamentals, leadership, and practical application. They will also benefit from expert-led workshops, AI frameworks, and entry into a global network of government peers sharing insights and best practices in AI deployment.
What You Should Know
The Apolitical Government AI Campus represents Google’s latest collaboration with the Nigerian government to modernize the public sector through artificial intelligence.
Backed by Apolitical and the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, the initiative aims to equip civil servants with essential AI skills to streamline governance, foster innovation, and position Nigeria as a leading voice in Africa’s digital transformation.
