President Bola Ahmed Tinubu met with Google Chief Executive Officer Sundar Pichai in Paris on Wednesday.
According to a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the meeting was held to discuss ways to advance Nigeria’s role in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital innovation.
President Tinubu commended Pichai for Google’s interest in supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation. The meeting, which was also attended by Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy Bosun Tijani, focused on forging a strategic partnership to enhance Nigeria’s journey towards AI and digital transformation.
He said that the partnership aligns seamlessly with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, centred on economic diversification through industrialisation, technology, and innovation.
“The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy will provide strategic oversight, while the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) will coordinate efforts alongside the private sector to ensure widespread and meaningful impact,” Onanuga revealed in the statement.
Speaking at the meeting, Google CEO Sundar Pichai reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation, stating: “Nigeria has an incredible opportunity to lead in AI and digital innovation in Africa. Google is excited to continue working with the Nigerian government to create an ecosystem that fosters innovation and economic growth.”
On his part, Minister Bosun Tijani described the partnership between Nigeria and Google as an important opportunity to accelerate Nigeria’s technological advancement and strengthen its digital economy. He emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to ensuring that AI and digital transformation create tangible benefits for businesses and citizens across the country.
President Tinubu acknowledged Nigeria’s potential as a burgeoning global technology destination and expressed his commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment that attracts strategic investments from leading tech companies.
“The discussions will continue as both parties look to deepen their collaboration and expedite Nigeria’s digital transformation, paving the way for sustainable economic growth,” the statement added.
