Microsoft and Nigerian Government Train 4 Million Nigerians in AI and Digital Skills Since 2021
Microsoft Corporation and the Federal Government of Nigeria have successfully trained over four million Nigerians in digital and AI skills since 2021, marking a significant step toward a future-ready workforce. The milestone was announced on December 17, 2025, by Nonye Ujam, Director for Government Affairs at Microsoft West Africa, during a media roundtable in Lagos. This partnership highlights Nigeria’s commitment to advancing its digital economy and equipping citizens with essential technological competencies.
Recent figures reveal that about 350,000 Nigerians have actively participated in Microsoft’s specialised student programmes. Of this number, 63,000 completed specific training pathways, and 43,000 earned global certifications. Plans are underway to train an additional 350,000 Nigerians in AI skills through Microsoft’s National Skills Initiative (AINSI), with support from Data Science Nigeria and Lagos Business School. These programmes focus on creating a strong pipeline of developers and technical talent across the country.
Government-led initiatives have also played a critical role in building technical skills. Programs like Developers in Government (DevsInGov) and the Three Million Technical Talent Initiative (3MTT) have equipped public sector developers with new competencies. Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana Country General Manager, Abideen Yusuf, emphasised that Nigeria’s AI adoption rate currently stands at 8.7%, slightly below the Sub-Saharan average, underscoring the urgency of widespread AI and tech training for national competitiveness.
The partnership extends beyond skills training for students and developers, targeting leaders and public sector officials. Lagos Business School’s Dean, Mrs. Olayinka David-West, noted that 99 public sector leaders from 58 agencies have been trained, with programs incorporating AI governance, ethics, and risk management. Data Science Nigeria’s initiative aims to reach grassroots learners, ensuring digital transformation is inclusive and evidence-based, benefiting sectors like agriculture and public service delivery.
These efforts align with broader federal initiatives to enhance digital literacy nationwide. Collaborations with Amazon Web Services and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) have introduced cloud computing, AI, and machine learning programs across universities, polytechnics, and vocational institutions. With a nationwide goal to reach 70% of Nigerians by 2027 and 95% by 2030, these initiatives aim to equip citizens with practical, globally relevant skills, preparing Nigeria’s workforce for the demands of a digital-first economy.
source: nairametrics