Nigeria Teams Up with Meta to Launch AI Accelerator and Deepen Tech Collaboration

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Nigeria Teams Up with Meta to Launch AI Accelerator and Deepen Tech Collaboration

The Federal Government has partnered with Meta to launch the Nigeria AI Accelerator Programme, targeting startups developing AI solutions for critical national sectors.

The initiative, announced by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, will be executed through the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and its research arm, NCAIR. The first cohort is scheduled to run from August to December 2025, with applications closing on July 12.

 “This initiative is not just about technology—it’s about ensuring Nigeria’s innovation economy remains globally competitive and inclusive,” said Minister Bosun Tijani.

A Broader AI Playbook

The accelerator will offer selected startups technical support, mentorship, and sector-specific resources to fine-tune AI applications in agriculture, healthcare, financial services, and education.

This isn’t Nigeria’s first attempt at institutionalizing AI development. In 2024, the government collaborated with Google on a ₦100 million AI fund for local startups. That partnership later expanded to a $1.5 million commitment with Luminate and a broader $5.8 million regional training push by Google across sub-Saharan Africa.

 Big Tech, Big Bets

Meta’s involvement brings global visibility and access to an international innovation network. It signals Nigeria’s intent to remain plugged into the fast-evolving AI landscape, especially in machine learning, generative AI, and responsible AI frameworks.

The collaboration reflects a growing pattern of public–private alliances aimed at leapfrogging development barriers through tech-driven solutions.

 Positioning Nigeria as an AI Powerhouse

Nigeria’s strategic interest in artificial intelligence is backed by a broader policy vision. In 2023, the government began drafting a National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, bringing together local and diaspora experts to build frameworks for ethical, inclusive AI growth.

By launching another accelerator in less than two years—this time with Meta—Nigeria is not only courting Big Tech, but also signaling to regional peers that it intends to lead in shaping the future of AI on the continent.

> As Africa’s most populous country and one of its largest startup markets, Nigeria’s AI moves will likely influence policy and investment trends across the region.