The Nigerian government, through its Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, recently made an announcement. It has awarded a series of grants totaling 5 million naira (around $290,000). This sum is intended to stimulate research and development in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative is part of the Nigerian Artificial Intelligence Research Program. It aims to promote the use of this technology to foster the country's economic growth.

Objectives of the Nigerian Artificial Intelligence Research Program

The Nigerian AI Research Program aims to support the integration of artificial intelligence applications into the country's economic prosperity. The aim is to accelerate the deployment of artificial intelligence technologies in various key sectors of the economy. These include health, education, energy, food safety and transport. The priority areas of intervention identified by the Ministry are :

• The development of new deep learning techniques and methods
• Improving machine learning algorithms for analyzing massive data
• The creation of autonomous systems capable of making decisions in real time
• The application of AI to the intelligent management of natural resources
• Support for innovation in the creative and cultural industries, such as film, fashion and design,

To qualify for these grants, applicants must submit a research proposal aligned with the priority areas of intervention defined by the Ministry.

How to apply for grants from the Nigerian AI Research Program?

To be eligible, applications must meet three main criteria:

1. Consortium: each grant application must be submitted by a consortium comprising at least one startup or technology company. The project must include a researcher from a Nigerian or foreign university.
2. Write a research proposal: projects submitted must fall within the priority themes identified by the Ministry. Applicants are also encouraged to demonstrate the potential impact of their project on the Nigerian economy and society.
3. Provide evidence of competence: applicant teams will need to prove their expertise in the field of AI. To do this, they will need to provide examples of previous work or relevant achievements.

Applications will be assessed by a committee of independent experts. The panel is made up of representatives of the Nigerian government, as well as academics and professionals from the private sector. Grants will be awarded on the basis of the quality of the projects submitted and their relevance to the objectives of the Nigerian AI Research Program.

The Nigerian government: a key player in supporting the emergence of AI on the African continent

This grant program is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Nigeria's position as a technology hub in Africa. Last August, the Nigerian government invited Nigerian scientists based abroad. In addition, international experts who have already worked in the Nigerian market have been invited. The aim is to develop a national strategy for artificial intelligence.

Conclusion

By supporting AI initiatives, the government hopes to accelerate the development and adoption of artificial intelligence technologies in Nigeria. This move also illustrates the growing desire of African countries to actively participate in the ongoing technological revolution. Just as they wish to contribute to the emergence of a strong, competitive and sustainable digital economy.