Google announces AI training for public servants

Google.org has introduced a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills development programme for Nigerian public servants through the Apolitical Government AI Campus, a global centre dedicated to advancing AI excellence in governance.

The initiative, unveiled on Thursday in Abuja, is a collaboration between Google and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.

The AI Campus will equip government officials with a comprehensive range of practical AI tools and resources.

Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, highlighted the importance of AI competencies within the public sector, stressing that Nigeria views artificial intelligence as a key catalyst for productivity and efficiency across major industries.

“We have been putting resources into ensuring that we can support our civil servants and our public service in a manner that AI can become something that is native to them.

To accelerate and shorten the time we spend on administrating our processes, or by using it to better deliver to our people.

This is why we are extremely excited about this opportunity and support from Google,” he said.

Olumide Balogun, Google’s West Africa Director, said the company’s investment in the initiative aligns with its commitment to advancing Nigeria’s digital future.

He noted that by collaborating closely with public sector leaders, Google aims to offer technical support and share expertise that will empower civil servants to deliver improved services.

“We are not only providing technical resources but sharing knowledge that empowers them to deliver better, more efficient government services,” he said.

Balogun added that AI-driven initiatives could help Nigerian communities achieve smarter governance, better social outcomes, and broader inclusion in the digital economy.

Chris Ferguson, Vice President at Apolitical, described the training as a strategic step towards preparing government workers for AI integration.

“This initiative is a pioneering effort that will equip Nigerian public servants with the capabilities to lead the digital transformation with confidence and foresight.

Bringing the Apolitical Government AI Campus to Nigeria is part of our broader commitment over the past years to advance AI adoption and digital skills in Nigeria.

This includes partnerships to expand internet access, support local AI innovation hubs, and enhance digital education.

These efforts collectively aim to help build a robust AI ecosystem that powers Nigeria’s sustainable economic growth and social development,” he said.

Google’s Communications and Public Relations Manager for West Africa, Mr Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, emphasised that AI continues to be a key enabler of Nigeria’s digital transformation.

He cited Apolitical research indicating that while 72 per cent of government leaders are testing AI solutions, more than half lack a defined strategy for widespread adoption.

Kola-Ogunlade said that each dollar invested in AI could generate over eight dollars in economic value, underscoring the need for a digitally skilled public workforce.

“To seize this opportunity, Nigeria needs an AI-skilled public service that can accelerate innovation, improve citizen-centered services, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

They will have access to government-specific online training, covering topics from AI fundamentals to AI leadership, plus expert-led events and tools and frameworks.

All designed to help public servants apply AI learnings in their domain.
They can also join the global AI in Government community, a space where thousands of government peers from around the world share their insights and AI best practices.”