Partnership and Funding Behind the AI Scaling Hub
The Nigerian government, working with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, has launched the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence (AI) Scaling Hub. This new hub will help speed up the development and use of AI technology in important areas like health, farming, and education. The Gates Foundation has agreed to provide up to $7.5 million over three years to support the hub’s work.
AI Scaling Hub Mission, Collaboration, and National Strategy
The AI Scaling Hub is a platform where government agencies, private tech companies, universities, and development partners will work together. Its goal is to take proven AI solutions and expand them so that they reach more people and have a bigger impact. By bringing these groups together, the hub will make it easier for Nigerian innovators to turn their ideas into real-world projects.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, of Nigeria’s Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, spoke about the importance of responsible AI development. He said,
“By working with the Gates Foundation, we are strengthening our capacity to ensure that AI-driven solutions are developed responsibly and deployed fairly. The AI Scaling Hub will serve as a catalyst for Nigerian innovators providing the resources, mentorship, and support necessary to translate ideas into impact”
Uche Amaonwu, Nigeria Country Director at the Gates Foundation, explained that the partnership aims to help communities that have been left out. He said, “We’re proud to support the Nigeria AI Scaling Hub with the Government of Nigeria and Lagos Business School. We are investing in local talent and innovation to ensure the benefits of AI reach those who need them most”
The launch of the AI Scaling Hub fits into Nigeria’s larger plan to become a leader in AI within Africa. In April 2025, the government introduced the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy. This strategy was created with input from government, universities, and industry experts. Its purpose is to guide how AI technologies should be used to drive economic growth and solve social challenges
SKJ