AI becomes the new hustle as Nigerians turn to google to learn new skills

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is fast becoming the latest hustle for Nigerians eager to stay relevant in an increasingly digital world. New Google Search trends released this week show a remarkable surge in Nigerians’ appetite for AI-related skills and digital entrepreneurship, signalling a nationwide shift toward tech-driven self-empowerment and income diversification.

According to the report, search interest for “how to make money with AI” has risen by over 40 percent in the past 12 months, while “how to learn AI” soared by a staggering 160 percent, making it one of the top trending “how to learn” queries in Nigeria. The data paints a picture of a country where innovation is no longer confined to tech hubs — everyday Nigerians are using the internet to reinvent themselves in a rapidly changing job market.

“These search trends reflect the ambition and adaptability of Nigerians. The data shows a clear pattern of people using technology, and in particular AI, to build their skills, create new opportunities, and navigate a changing professional landscape. We are committed to providing the tools that empower this growth and innovation,” said Olumide Balogun, Google’s director for West Africa.

Read also: Nigeria aims to close AI knowledge gap with 25,000 educators

Digital hustle culture evolves

In a nation where unemployment and inflation continue to challenge young people, AI and digital learning have emerged as new frontiers of economic hope. Beyond AI, Google reports soaring interest in a range of digital and creative skills, with Nigerians searching for “how to learn forex trade” (+300 percent), “how to learn make up” (+270 percent), and “how to learn Photoshop” (+180 percent).

The phrase “how to learn computer step by step” also grew by 160 percent, underscoring how many first-time learners are entering the digital economy from scratch.

The entrepreneurial spirit remains strong, too. Searches such as “how to start a business from home” have nearly doubled (+90 percent), while “how to start a business with no money” climbed 80 percent year-on-year. Top trending business-related queries include ‘how to start a real estate business’, ‘cocoa export business*, *ghostwriting business’, ‘clothing brand’, and ‘importation business’.

These insights highlight a widespread hunger for financial independence and the growing belief that technology can provide a viable path to prosperity.

From side hustles to smart hustles

Experts say the trend marks a deeper transformation in how Nigerians perceive work and education. Rather than relying solely on formal employment or academic degrees, more citizens are turning to online platforms for practical, income-yielding knowledge, from coding to content creation.

For many, AI tools have become a shortcut to innovation. Entrepreneurs are learning to automate processes, create digital products, and even build virtual assistants, all guided by online tutorials and communities. Freelancers, designers, and writers are also using generative AI platforms to expand their output and client reach.

“People no longer see AI as something far away or complicated. It is now a daily hustle tool, something that helps you work faster, smarter, and even make money from home.” Ifeoma Olatunji, who learned AI-assisted content creation through free online courses, told BusinessDay.

Read also: Experts urged FG to adopt stakeholders’ approach in tackling misuse of AI in Nigeria

Google’s role in Nigeria’s digital upskilling

Google has been a major player in Nigeria’s digital transformation, offering platforms like ‘Grow with Google’ and ‘Google Career Certificates’ to help people acquire practical skills in data analytics, digital marketing, and AI. The company says its ongoing initiatives are aimed at closing the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to technology-driven opportunities.

“The future of work is being written online. We are seeing Nigerians use Search as a window into new possibilities, not just to learn, but to build sustainable livelihoods,” Balogun added.

A Future fueled by curiosity and code

As Nigeria’s economy continues to digitize, analysts predict that AI literacy will soon become as essential as computer literacy once was. From small business owners to students and freelancers, millions are searching not just for jobs, but for tools to create them.

In this new landscape, the Nigerian hustle is evolving, powered by curiosity, connectivity, and code. For many, Google has become more than a search engine; it is the new classroom, the new marketplace, and, increasingly, the launchpad for a smarter kind of hustle.