The Nation Newspaper

Category: Technology

  • ‘Why journalists must embrace AI’

    ‘Why journalists must embrace AI’

    As technology continues to rapidly change how things are done, journalists have been urged to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) or risk fading into irrelevance in the coming months.

    Senior Manager, Architecture and Engineering at MTN Nigeria, Chukwuebuka Ezewuzie, made the appeal at the School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, where he delivered a lecture to the MTN MIP-4 cohorts last week.

    Ezewuzie noted that AI offers a wide range of possibilities to journalists, including generating headlines, summarising lengthy articles, crafting interview questions based on existing data and producing multimedia content for diverse platforms within minutes.

    Acknowledging the challenges journalists face, such as tight deadlines, multiple content formats and the need for accuracy, the tech expert said AI would reduce these burdens if adequately deployed.

    “You can upload entire documents and ask the AI to provide a simplified summary tailored to your tone and style,” he explained.

    However, he warned against blind reliance on AI outputs, stressing the need for fact-checking due to potential errors, hallucinations and biases in the technology.

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    He also spoke about the visual storytelling power of AI, particularly in generating images and videos that match the tone of a story.

    “You can instruct the AI to create visuals that are appropriate and avoid injurious content,” he said.

    While acknowledging ethical concerns such as deep fakes, Ezewuzie pointed out that AI is also being used to detect such manipulated content, with tech giants like Facebook already deploying tools to flag deep fakes and copyright breaches. He concluded by urging journalists to develop AI skills, noting that very soon, proficiency in AI will be a basic professional requirement, just like computer literacy.

  • AI/ML infrastructure resilience crucial for quantum future – Expert

    AI/ML infrastructure resilience crucial for quantum future – Expert

    A Nigerian network engineer expert has called on Nigerian policy makers and stakeholders in the tech industry to prioritise resilience in AI/ML infrastructure as key to building a secure and trustworthy quantum future, because organisations delaying PQC adoption may face compliance gaps, data exposure, and model theft risks in the coming decade.

    For him, only through such integrated, cross-disciplinary approaches can the country ensure that the evolution of AI and quantum computing proceeds not only with technical sophistication, but with responsible foresight.

    Interacting with newsmen virtually recently, Oluwatosin Aramide,  a Network Engineering Expert, based in Ireland, said, Quantum algorithms threaten to render classical cryptographic methods obsolete, exposing AI/ML systems to potential breaches in confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

    He explained that the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into critical infrastructure has raised urgent concerns about data and model security, particularly in light of emerging quantum computing capabilities.

    Given his paper titled  ‘Quantum-Safe Networking for Critical AI/ML Infrastructure’, which investigates the implications of quantum computing for securing AI/ML data both in transit and at rest and explores the development of quantum-safe networking protocols and cryptographic techniques.

    In the work, he examined post-quantum cryptographic (PQC) solutions including lattice-based, code-based, and hash-based algorithms, alongside the role of quantum key distribution (QKD) and AI-enhanced security orchestration.

    The study further addresses secure edge intelligence, federated AI systems, and emerging standards for 6G and beyond, while his findings highlight both the necessity and complexity of transitioning to quantum-resilient infrastructure.

    However, the key challenges include computational overhead, legacy interoperability, and ethical concerns around AI-powered surveillance in quantum-secured environments and concluding by emphasising the need for proactive policy, investment in quantum-safe R&D, and cross-sector collaboration to safeguard AI/ML infrastructure in the post-quantum era.

    Commenting, he said, there is a need for a policy framework that integrates quantum readiness with AI ethics, secure software development lifecycles, as well as cross-border data governance.

    He stressed the need for governments and regulatory bodies to collaborate with industry and academic consortia to establish mandatory PQC adoption timelines, fund open-source quantum-safe AI frameworks, promote A-specific encryption standards and conduct national-level readiness assessments.

    He stated that the rapid deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies across critical infrastructures ranging from healthcare and transportation to national defence and finance has introduced a new class of cyber-physical dependencies.

    He noted that these intelligent systems process, transmit, and store vast quantities of sensitive data, making them highly attractive targets for cyberattacks. While traditional cryptographic mechanisms have long protected such assets, the emergence of quantum computing poses an existential threat to the security of AI/ML pipelines.

    The research explained that Quantum algorithms such as Shor’s and Grover’s are capable of breaking widely adopted encryption schemes like RSA and elliptic-curve cryptography, undermining data confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity in AI-driven environments.

    According to him, “A policy framework that integrates quantum readiness with AI ethics, secure software development lifecycles, and cross-border data governance is essential. Governments and regulatory bodies must collaborate with industry and academic consortia to establish mandatory PQC adoption timelines, fund open-source quantum-safe AI frameworks, promote A-specific encryption standards and conduct national-level readiness assessments.

    Read Also: Future Prospects: Bitcoin in the Age of Quantum Computing

    “Institutions and corporations often lack dedicated governance models for AI/ML security in the post-quantum context. Moreover, cross-sectoral partnerships between governments, telcos, cloud providers, and AI labs can accelerate PQC testing and standardisation efforts.

    “In summary, the looming reality of quantum computing demands immediate and coordinated responses across policy, security, and AI communities. Critical AI/ ML systems, especially those deployed in distributed and real-time environments, face multidimensional risks from quantum threats that cannot be mitigated by conventional means.  A shift toward post-quantum secure architectures, embedded in proactive governance frameworks and international policy mandates, is not just necessary; it is inevitable.”

    On the challenges and future research directions, he said, “As the transition toward quantum-safe networking becomes increasingly urgent, especially for critical AI/ML infrastructures, the path forward is not without considerable obstacles. While post-quantum cryptographic (PQC) algorithms and quantum-resistant architectures offer promising defences against quantum-enabled threats, they also introduce new technical, operational, and ethical complexities.”

  • Sharp Logistics begins AI-enabled delivery system across Africa

    Sharp Logistics begins AI-enabled delivery system across Africa

    A popular and fast-growing logistics company, Sharp Logistics, has begun an artificial intelligence delivery system to cut the excesses of fragmented delivery plagued by infrastructure gaps.

    This was disclosed on Wednesday by the Chief Executive Officer of the logistics firm, Omotosho Damola.

    According to him, his company has taken deliberate steps not only to scale but to redefine what logistics means for a rising Africa.

    Founded in 2019 with just a few delivery motorcycles and a dream, Sharp Logistics has grown into a trusted partner serving businesses across retail, e-commerce, FMCG, and industrial sectors. But what lies ahead is more than just growth; it is transformation.

    Damola also maintained that the next phase is about strategic reinvention. “Africa’s logistics problem isn’t just roads and trucks, it’s strategy.

    “It’s time to build logistics systems that are not just reactive, but intelligent, scalable, and built for the African terrain.”

    As part of its bold new direction, Sharp Logistics is investing heavily in technology, launching real-time tracking tools, AI-powered routing, and mobile-first platforms that ensure instant visibility, faster deliveries, and smarter operations. Beyond Nigeria, the company is preparing for regional expansion, with Ghana as its first cross-border hub and additional partnerships lined up across West Africa. It is also responding to global calls for sustainability, piloting electric delivery bikes and solar-powered distribution hubs in Lagos, setting the pace for greener, more efficient logistics in urban areas.

    What began as a grassroots delivery outfit is now a multi-fleet operation handling thousands of deliveries every month, employing a growing team of professionals and riders, and earning the trust of top-tier brands. Through intentional service, operational excellence, and innovation, the company continues to live up to its slogan: “We’ll be there in a wink.”

    Read Also: ‘Logistics, courier, others worth over N3tr’

    As Nigeria positions itself as the heartbeat of African commerce, and trade under the AfCFTA agreement intensifies, logistics becomes the backbone of progress. Sharp Logistics isn’t waiting for the future; it’s building it. With its soon-to-be-launched SmartFleet TM platform connecting customers, riders, and dispatch managers in real time, and its plan to electrify part of its fleet by 2026, the company is laying the infrastructure for a new standard in African logistics.

    “Our goal isn’t just market share, it’s legacy,” says Damola. “Sharp Logistics will be a case study of African excellence in motion. And we’re just getting started.”

    With the upcoming launch of its Ghana hub, the introduction of green mobility programs, and the training of over 500 new riders in the next year, Sharp Logistics is not just solving today’s problems — it is reimagining tomorrow’s possibilities. And with Omotosho Damola at the helm, the road ahead is looking sharper than ever.

  • NITDA, GetBundi collaborate to equip NYSC members with digital skills

    NITDA, GetBundi collaborate to equip NYSC members with digital skills

    The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and GetBundi Education Technology have commenced the phase 2 of the training of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members on digital skills.

    The training, which focuses on Graphics, Digital Marketing and Cybersecurity, comes under NITDA’s ongoing Digital Literacy for All Initiative (DL4ALL) which aims to propel Nigeria to a 70 per cent digital literacy level by 2027.

    Last year, NITDA and GetBundi Education Technology began a collaboration that saw GetBundi develop a digital literacy framework and implementation model in the six competency areas of the DL4ALL.

     As part of the collaboration, GetBundi also trained selected corps members under the pilot phase of the DL4ALL initiative. The corps were thereafter onboarded as Digital Literacy Champions and became NITDA ambassadors, training and sharing their knowledge in their primary places of deployment or assignment.

    In return for the corps members’ support for DL4ALL, NITDA and GetBundi have now partnered to equip the corps members with 3 skill sets that will make them instantly employable.

    NITDA’s DL4ALL initiative aims to train a critical mass of Nigerians in the informal sector in foundational digital literacy skills to equip them with the necessary tools to access and utilise online resources for education, employment, and financial services safely; protect themselves online from cyber threats and misinformation; communicate and collaborate effectively using digital tools; and develop the digital fluency required for many in-demand jobs.

    NITDA had said the initiative would be implemented through a multi-stakeholder approach that would leverage the expertise from reach of a diverse group of actors from across the Nigerian landscape.

    Read Also: NITDA flags off southeast tech talent hunt ahead of GITEX Nigeria 2025

    Earlier, GetBundi had also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) to empower students across federal, state and private colleges of education with the right digital skill sets for tomorrow’s classroom.

    The collaboration, aimed at training 2,900 students from 29 Federal Colleges of Education in advanced digital literacy and key skills like Graphics, Excel, Video Editing, and Digital Marketing in the pilot phase, was part of national efforts to attract more youths into teaching careers and build a sustainable educational system. 

    It also signalled NCCE’s recognition of the critical role of technology in catalysing educational and personal growth of individuals as well as the centrality of digital literacy and digital skills in achieving successful digital transformation in Nigeria.

  • NITDA flags off southeast tech talent hunt ahead of GITEX Nigeria 2025

    NITDA flags off southeast tech talent hunt ahead of GITEX Nigeria 2025

    The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) on Tuesday launched a regional tech startup competition in Enugu, aimed at identifying the most promising innovators from Nigeria’s southeast geopolitical zone ahead of the GITEX Nigeria 2025 Startup Festival.

    Young tech entrepreneurs from Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo states gathered for the GITEX Nigeria 2025 Regional Roadshow, a prelude to the national startup event slated for Abuja from September 1 to 4.

    Speaking at the Enugu roadshow, the State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Lawrence Ezeh, hailed the initiative as a strategic move to spotlight emerging digital talent and empower youth in the region.

    “This is more than a competition. It’s a pipeline to national relevance and global competitiveness,” Ezeh said. “Our youths must seize this moment to become part of the GITEX Nigeria 2025 story, and possibly GITEX Global in Dubai.”

    READ ALSO: Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to newly sworn-in Ondo commissioners

    Dr. Nkem Momah, Head of NITDA’s south east zonal office, said the programme seeks to discover startups building scalable, problem-solving solutions in sectors such as HealthTech, AgriTech, FinTech, AI, EdTech, ClimateTech, and CreativeTech.

    “Our goal is to identify and empower bold innovators whose solutions can reshape Nigeria’s digital economy,” Momah said.

    Winners from the Southeast pitch competition will earn a sponsored slot to exhibit at the Abuja Startup Festival, where they’ll pitch to a panel of tech investors, industry experts, government officials, and the media. They’ll also be considered for global exposure at GITEX Global in Dubai—one of the world’s biggest technology trade shows.

    GITEX Nigeria is modelled after Dubai’s Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX), which has served as a global innovation hub since 1981.

  • VerseOne Distribution Now processes Naira Transactions – More African Currencies to Follow

    VerseOne Distribution Now processes Naira Transactions – More African Currencies to Follow

    VerseOne Distribution, is proud to announce that it now accepts payments in Nigerian Naira (NGN) for its range of services, including VerseOne Pro, its popular white-label software and music promotional services. This milestone marks a significant step in VerseOne’s commitment to making its services more accessible and inclusive for African creators, labels, and music entrepreneurs.

    VerseOne also offers users the possibility of withdrawing their royalties in Nigerian Naira directly to their Nigerian banks, thereby eliminating wire transfer delays and international bank transfer fees.

    Starting today, clients in Nigeria can seamlessly make payments in local currency, eliminating the barriers of currency exchange and international payment processing. This development empowers Nigerian users to fully leverage VerseOne’s distribution and promotional tools with greater ease and convenience.

    In line with its broader African strategy, VerseOne also revealed that support for additional African currencies — including the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS), Kenyan Shilling (KES), and South African Rand (ZAR) — will be rolled out in the coming weeks.

    VerseOne Distribution continues to expand its reach and functionality across the continent, providing tailored solutions that empower artists, labels, and digital entrepreneurs to distribute their content globally while building strong local foundations.

    Click for more information about VerseOne white label music distribution service,

  • AI is thought partner, not a threat, NITDA DG tells CEOs

    AI is thought partner, not a threat, NITDA DG tells CEOs

    The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has called on Nigerian business leaders to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a strategic partner for innovation and productivity rather than viewing it as a threat to human employment.

    Speaking at the BusinessDay CEO Forum Nigeria in Lagos, during a panel titled “Builders of the New Nigeria – Stories of Scale, Grit, and Innovation,” Inuwa challenged conventional perceptions of AI, urging CEOs to view the technology as a “thought partner” that can generate new ideas, unlock business models, and enhance competitiveness in a fast-changing global economy.

    Inuwa explained that while AI can outperform humans in certain tasks, it is not intended to replace people. Rather, it will displace specific skills and processes currently relied on in performing various tasks. He advised business leaders to collaborate with AI by assigning it clear roles such as virtual assistants, legal advisors, or business analysts to drive more effective and purposeful integration.

    However, he cautioned that while AI holds immense potential, it must be used with vigilance. Business leaders, he warned, should not assume AI is always accurate or ethical. Inuwa highlighted the need for strong regulatory oversight and explained that NITDA’s approach involves collaborating with the private sector to test and co-create solutions through “policy labs” before rolling out frameworks or regulations.

    This progressive approach, according to him, enables NITDA to develop evidence-based policies that promote innovation while ensuring public safety. Rather than imposing blanket restrictions out of fear, the agency encourages experimentation with emerging technologies in safe, controlled environments, gaining insights that inform future regulatory frameworks.

    The CEO Forum brought together influential business executives, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and thought leaders to discuss strategies for resilience, growth, and innovation in Nigeria’s economic landscape. Panelists shared personal stories of perseverance and examined how digital technologies like AI, mobile payments, and data analytics are reshaping business in Nigeria.

    In another session of the forum, Inuwa delivered a presentation titled “Nigeria’s Journey to a Digital Economy,” where he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to digital literacy as the foundation for economic growth, social inclusion, and national prosperity.

    He stressed that digital literacy goes beyond just knowing how to use devices and apps. “It is about empowering individuals to access opportunities, create jobs, and contribute meaningfully to the economy,” Inuwa noted, highlighting the Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) Initiative, a national programme that aims to achieve 70 percent digital literacy across the population by 2027.

    The DL4ALL Initiative, he explained, targets all Nigerians—including students, civil servants, traders, and people in underserved communities—through mobile literacy campaigns, training hubs, and digital learning platforms. The goal is to equip every Nigerian with the skills required to succeed in a modern, tech-driven economy.

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    Reflecting on the country’s digital evolution, Inuwa traced Nigeria’s journey from the early 2000s when less than 500,000 people had access to computers, and the ICT sector contributed less than 0.5 percent to GDP. Today, over 130 million Nigerians have internet access, and the ICT sector contributes more than 17 percent to the nation’s GDP.

    The Director General cited milestones such as the introduction of the National IT Policy in 2001, the NITDA Act in 2007, and a strategic shift in 2012 toward integrating ICT into public and private life. By 2019, Nigeria had progressed beyond basic ICT usage to deploying digital technologies for national economic growth.

    Inuwa also aligned these achievements with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which positions digital innovation at the heart of Nigeria’s economic diversification and reform efforts. He said the agenda identifies digital transformation as essential in accelerating development across sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, governance, and creative industries.

    According to Inuwa, technology is not just an enabler but a catalyst for change. It helps simplify processes, increases efficiency, and drives transformation across critical sectors. He noted that Tinubu’s reforms offer a timely opportunity for Nigeria to harness the full potential of digital tools in building a more inclusive and resilient economy.

    He reminded business leaders and policymakers that economic reform must not be viewed as a fixed destination but as an ongoing journey of adaptation and innovation. Reforming the economy, he said, requires continuous improvement, a willingness to embrace new tools, and strategic partnerships that promote inclusive growth.

    Outlining NITDA’s roadmap for digital transformation, Inuwa identified the key pillars: promoting digital literacy and talent development; expanding access to digital infrastructure and services; strengthening legal and policy frameworks; enhancing cybersecurity and digital trust; supporting research and innovation; fostering entrepreneurship and building public-private partnerships, and cultivating an agile and forward-thinking workforce.

    The DG emphasized that these pillars are not abstract ideas but actionable strategies designed to ensure inclusive development and digital competitiveness. He concluded by stating that Nigeria’s future success depends largely on how well it prepares its people to thrive in a digital world.

    If properly executed, Inuwa said, the country’s digital strategy will not only create jobs and boost innovation but also secure Nigeria’s place as a global leader in the digital economy. Equipping citizens with digital skills, he noted, is no longer optional—it is imperative for sustainable national development.

  • All On invests $0.25m in enee.io to scale sales operations in Nigeria

    All On invests $0.25m in enee.io to scale sales operations in Nigeria

    In a move that reinforces its mission to expand energy access across Nigeria, All On, a leading impact investment company, has announced a strategic investment of $250,000 in enee.io, a cutting-edge technology firm specializing in advanced energy monitoring systems.

    This investment marks a significant step in scaling enee.io’s sales operations within Nigeria, enabling the company to broaden its reach and impact in the off-grid energy sector. enee.io is recognized for its intelligent software solutions that simplify energy management and enhance the efficiency of renewable energy systems—an ideal fit with All On’s commitment to supporting scalable, high-impact clean energy businesses.

    enee.io’s technology goes beyond innovation—it builds trust in renewable energy by equipping users with the tools to monitor and manage their energy systems effectively. This empowers individuals and businesses to make informed decisions, optimize energy use, and to contribute to a more sustainable future.

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    Oluseye Bassir, Investment Manager at All On, commented at the signing: “At All On, our mission is rooted in creating opportunities for communities that have been excluded from sustainable energy conversations. By investing in enee.io, we are supporting a platform that enables Nigerians to manage their energy consumption, cut wastage and maximize the performance of their energy devices”

    The CEO of enee.io, David Smith added: “We’re thrilled to have All On as a strategic investor. Their deep understanding of the Nigerian energy landscape, and their commitment to scaling impactful clean energy solutions, makes them an ideal partner for enee.io. This investment will accelerate our rollout across Nigeria, helping more businesses and communities move away from inadequate grid supply and expensive diesel, and towards more reliable and affordable energy powered by smarter, data-driven systems.”

    This partnership highlights All On’s continued dedication to empowering entrepreneurs, strengthening clean energy value chains, and building an inclusive energy future—one solution, one community at a time.

    All On Partnerships for Energy Access (All On), an independent impact investing company, was seeded by Shell to catalyze the growth of Nigeria’s off-grid energy market to provide affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for low-income households and small businesses.

    enee.io, a pioneering technology company established in 2019 in Manchester, has swiftly positioned itself at the forefront of the renewable energy sector by specializing in the design and development of sophisticated energy monitoring systems.

  • OAU kicks off nationwide $300m WCHL25

    OAU kicks off nationwide $300m WCHL25

    The World Computer Hackathon League 2025 (WCHL25) has officially commenced its first stage in Nigeria, with a series of regional hackathon meetups scheduled throughout July. 

    Led by ICP Hub Nigeria, the initiative is focused on engaging young developers, startup founders, and creatives across various regions in building Web3 solutions using the Internet Computer Protocol (ICP).

    The ICP provides the blockchain infrastructure powering the hackathon, while ICP Hub Nigeria coordinates local outreach and onboarding efforts. 

    The programme which begins on July 11 at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, marks the first campus activation before moving to Kaduna on July 15, Kano on July 16, Uyo and Enugu on July 19, and conclude with a demo day in Lagos on July 26 at the ALX Hub, Costain. 

    According to the Co-founder of ICP Hub Nigeria, Dolapo Ogunfidodo, in a statement by Mana Lamja on Wednesday, the events provide participants with an opportunity to explore blockchain technologies, collaborate on projects, receive technical mentorship, and compete for a share of the $300,000 prize pool allocated for the league.

    WCHL25 is supported by several stakeholders committed to driving Africa’s digital growth, with DeCentralhub, a grassroots Web3 initiative partnering with ICP Nigeria to extend accessibility and support collaboration within the ecosystem. 

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    Zynta and SudoCat, she said, are offering technical resources and creative support to participating developers and are also sponsoring the Stage 1 demo event in Lagos.

    She said following the completion of Phase 1 this month, the WCHL25 will advance into its next stages, which include regional accelerators aimed at spotlighting top projects. These will provide incubation, funding, and partnership opportunities for selected teams.

    The long-term goal of the hackathon, according to Ogunfidodo, is not only to reward innovative solutions but also to help validate emerging ideas, foster cross-regional collaboration, and support the growth of Nigeria’s Web3 and digital innovation landscape.

    Considering this, ICP Hub Nigeria is urging young Nigerian innovators to seize the opportunity by registering via this form, to strengthen their prospects of contributing to and gaining visibility within the global (ICP) ecosystem.

  • NerdzFactory, Raspberry Pi, Google launch AI training for 3,150 teachers in 5 states

    NerdzFactory, Raspberry Pi, Google launch AI training for 3,150 teachers in 5 states

    A total of 3,150 secondary school teachers across five Nigerian states are set to receive training in artificial intelligence (AI) under a new educational initiative launched by NerdzFactory Company in partnership with the United Kingdom’s Raspberry Pi Foundation and Google DeepMind.

    The programme, titled “Experience AI,” aims to build foundational AI skills for teachers in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, and Ekiti states, reaching more than 157,000 students by 2026.

    Speaking at the launch in Lagos, Founding Partner at NerdzFactory Company, Ade Olowojoba, said the programme would equip teachers to inspire innovation among students and build their confidence to use AI effectively.

    Olowojoba, who was represented by the company’s Business and Operations Lead, Motolani Folabi, explained that the training would be delivered through a blended approach, with approximately 70 per cent conducted online via live sessions and digital resources, while the remaining 30 per cent would involve in-person workshops to provide hands-on experience, especially in areas with limited internet access.

    He noted that the training will run until December 2026 in alignment with Nigeria’s academic calendar, focusing on public schools in rural, low-income, and underserved communities through collaboration with state education ministries.

    “At NerdzFactory, we believe AI education should be accessible to all. Partnering with the Raspberry Pi Foundation supports our mission to open up digital skills to Nigerian youth. Experience AI empowers a generation to innovate and solve real community problems. Today marks more than just the launch of an initiative; it represents a bold step into the future, one where access to cutting-edge knowledge and skills is no longer a privilege for a few but a right for all.

    “We are deeply honoured to be working alongside two global giants, the Raspberry Pi Foundation and Google DeepMind, to bring this transformative programme to life. Together, we are set to train 3,150 secondary school teachers and reach over 157,000 students across Nigeria with foundational AI education. That is not just a number; it is the spark that can light up thousands of lives, classrooms, and communities.

    Read Also: Access, NerdzFactory Foundation empower 500 youths with digital skills

    “At NerdzFactory, we are driven by one core belief: that young people, regardless of their background or location, should be equipped to thrive in the digital age. The Experience AI programme is about more than learning how artificial intelligence works; it is about building the confidence to dream, the tools to create, and the vision to lead,” he said.

    Global Partnerships Manager at the Raspberry Pi Foundation, Katherine Leadbetter, said the programme would equip teachers with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to teach AI effectively and inspire students to understand and apply the technology meaningfully.

    “Experience AI is an educational programme offering cutting-edge resources on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Co-developed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation and Google DeepMind, it is aligned with UNESCO’s AI competency framework for students and supports educators of all experience levels in an increasingly AI-driven world to inform and inspire the next generation.

    “We are pleased to have NerdzFactory as part of the Experience AI network in Nigeria. Together, we aim to equip teachers to confidently teach AI, making it engaging and relevant for students. This foundation will help young people grasp AI technologies and their potential impact.”

    Head of Government Affairs and Public Policy (West Africa) at Google, Adewolu Adene, described the initiative as a strategic milestone.

    “Experience AI’s launch in Nigeria is a key step. As AI reshapes our world, every young Nigerian should have the opportunity to learn about and safely use this transformative technology.”

    Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Olatunbosun Alake, emphasised the importance of integrating AI into education to prepare students for the future.

    The Commissioner, who was represented by the Director of Software and Web Development in the ministry, Jimoh Wasiu, explained that AI holds vast potential to transform sectors such as agriculture and security, and education is the starting point to harness these opportunities.

    Alake highlighted practical applications of AI, including diagnosing poultry diseases through AI-powered mobile apps and enhancing security with facial and voice recognition technologies capable of identifying individuals under concealment or attempting to disguise their voices.

    “If you look at the country today, we are talking about insecurity. If you look at what artificial intelligence can do in the area of facial recognition and how it can be applied to security, then your bandwidth is great,” he said.

    He added that integrating AI into education would equip children to become innovators and problem-solvers for national development.

    The Commissioner assured stakeholders of the ministry’s support, stating: “If there is any way we can be of support in terms of resources, we have our own in-house AI experts who would be delighted to work and cooperate with you.”

    Tutor General and Permanent Secretary of Education District 5, Hassan Abiodun, who was represented by a Deputy Director, Mrs Olateju Foluke, described the initiative as groundbreaking, saying it demonstrates the Lagos State Government’s commitment to quality education and preparing students for the future.

    He explained that integrating AI would improve learning outcomes, enhance teacher effectiveness, and equip students with the critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills needed for success in an AI-driven world.

    The event was attended by other Tutor Generals, Permanent Secretaries, and Directors of Education from the participating states where the training will take place.