AI evolution in Nigeria: Opportunities, gaps, and local champions
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept for Nigeria; it is fast becoming a vital force for transformation across industries, governance, and everyday life. Over the past few years, Nigeria’s AI ecosystem has shifted from curiosity to real progress, driven by creativity, necessity, and a youthful spirit that refuses to be left behind. Today, startups, government agencies, educators, and investors are shaping a story that blends innovation, ambition, and local relevance.
Potential transformation possibilities
Nigeria’s embrace of AI mirrors its broader technological evolution, propelled by a generation that is bold, inventive, and eager to solve problems. With more than 60 AI-focused startups emerging across healthcare, finance, agriculture, and education, Nigeria is quickly positioning itself as one of Africa’s leading innovation hubs.
Startups such as Awarri, AutogonAI, and ZeroComplexAI are developing localised tools and systems, including voice models that understand Nigerian accents and intelligent automation for small and medium enterprises. Others, like Terrahaptix, already deployed Iroko drones to mines, farmlands & other critical assets.
Government leadership has also become more deliberate. The launch of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (NAIS) and the creation of the Nigeria National AI Trust mark a decisive step toward a structured, responsible approach to AI. The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) continues to set the pace, introducing initiatives such as the Regulatory Intelligence Framework and the AI Policy Test Lab to ensure that innovation grows hand in hand with accountability.
These efforts demonstrate that Nigeria is poised to lead Africa’s digital transformation journey; yet, the real momentum comes from local champions who are translating policy into tangible impact and ensuring that technology serves human needs.
Opportunities across key sectors
AI is reshaping some of Nigeria’s most critical sectors. In financial services, traditional institutions such as Sterling Bank, UBA, and Interswitch are using AI for fraud detection, credit scoring, and customer engagement, while fintechs such as Moniepoint, OPay, LemFi, and Duplo are bringing financial inclusion to millions through data-driven lending and automation.
In healthcare, AI is improving diagnosis, patient management, and local innovation. Companies such as 3D Africa, Healthstack, and Zuri Health are applying AI to telemedicine, imaging, and medical device production in Nigeria, reducing reliance on imports and improving affordability.
The agriculture sector is equally promising. Startups such as Releaf, Crop2Cash, and AgroData are helping farmers use predictive analytics for weather forecasting, soil quality assessment, and pest control, resulting in higher yields and reduced waste.
In manufacturing and logistics, companies like Doric Logistics are harnessing AI to monitor supply chains, optimise routes, and cut operational costs. The technology is also making inroads into education, where platforms such as Klas, LearnAM, and Utiva use AI to customise learning pathways and upskill thousands of young Nigerians.
Education and talent development may prove to be AI’s greatest long-term gift to Nigeria. With almost half of the population under thirty-five, initiatives such as the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme and AI in Nigeria’s Community of Learning and Practice are preparing a new generation of data scientists, engineers, and innovators who can compete globally while solving local challenges.
Gaps and growing pains
Despite this rapid growth, the ecosystem still faces serious challenges. Access to quality, structured data remains limited, with most organisations relying on fragmented information that undermines AI accuracy. Weak infrastructure, including power supply issues and limited access to cloud computing, continues to restrict progress, particularly outside major cities such as Lagos and Abuja.
Funding also poses a problem. While the Nigerian Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme has supported startups and researchers with grants, many still struggle to attract long-term investors. AI development is expensive, and without consistent financial support, several promising innovations risk stagnation.
There is also the issue of talent readiness. Although thousands of young Nigerians and professionals are now studying AI and related fields, practical experience remains scarce. Many graduates and professionals lack access to real-world deployment opportunities. The continued emigration of skilled professionals is also widening this gap.
Ethical awareness and regulation must deepen. As Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of NITDA, has observed, regulating AI is not about restricting innovation; it is about ensuring that it advances public good responsibly. Nigeria must continue to balance creativity with ethics to earn public trust and avoid digital inequalities.
Ecosystem champions leading the way
At the heart of this transformation are visionary organisations and individuals. AI in Nigeria, through its annual communities of learning and practice, the InnovateAI conference, and the yearly Nigeria AI Landscape, continues to connect stakeholders, shape policies, and drive national conversations around AI adoption.
Private-sector leaders such as MTN, Flutterwave, and Stanbic IBTC are integrating AI into their operations and governance structures, while universities, research institutions, and innovation hubs are inspiring young Nigerians through hands-on learning and mentorship. Across the country, community-driven projects such as AI Saturdays Lagos and university-based AI clubs are helping to democratise knowledge and spark interest at the grassroots level.
Bottom line
The evolution of AI across Nigeria will depend on how well it scales what already works. Strengthening infrastructure, promoting fair regulation, investing in talent, and encouraging collaboration between startups and larger enterprise organisations will be key.
AI can become a catalyst for Nigeria’s economic renewal if properly supported. It could create jobs, improve governance, enhance education, and unlock billions of naira in new value.
Dotun Adeoye is a technology strategist, AI innovation leader, and co-founder of AI in Nigeria. He has over 30 years of global experience across Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa and advises governments and businesses on AI transformation and digital growth.
