The federal government has launched the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence (AI) scaling hub in partnership with the Gates Foundation to accelerate the responsible adoption of AI technologies in health, education, and agriculture.

The initiative was announced on Monday, during the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the federal ministry of communications, innovation and digital economy and the Gates Foundation in Abuja.

According to the ministry, the hub is supported by a $7.5 million commitment from the Gates Foundation over three years.

The ministry said the hub is expected to deploy mature AI solutions that improve lives and create opportunities for Nigerians.

Speaking at the ceremony, Bosun Tijani, minister of communications, innovation and digital economy, said the partnership will help Nigeria develop AI responsibly and support innovators to turn ideas into impact.

“By working with the Gates Foundation, we are strengthening our capacity to ensure that AI-driven solutions are developed responsibly and deployed equitably,” the minister said.

“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, said the partnership reflects a commitment to ensuring that the benefits of AI reach underserved communities.

“We’re proud to support the Nigeria AI Scaling Hub with the Government of Nigeria and Lagos Business School, investing in local talent and innovation to ensure the benefits of AI reach those who need them most,” he added.

The launch of the scaling hub follows the introduction of Nigeria’s National AI Strategy in April.

According to the ministry, the strategy is designed to serve as a model for other African countries and contribute to the continent’s economic growth.