The Nigerian Federal Government has recently launched an innovative initiative, the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme, designed to foster the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) in the country. Spearheaded by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, this pioneering scheme is set to award N5 million in grants to 45 startups and researchers dedicated to furthering AI technology within Nigeria.
Encouraging AI development for economic progress
The primary objective of this scheme, as emphasized by Dr. Bosun Tijani, is to promote and integrate the application of AI into various sectors for the nation’s economic development. The minister, in an announcement on Friday, invited eligible startups and researchers to seize the opportunity and utilize the N5 million grant to enhance their AI-related projects and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
Through a social media post, the Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to establishing a robust AI ecosystem within Nigeria. “We’ve launched the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme to fund 45 consortia of startups and researchers to allow them to explore further opportunities to deepen their work and build a sustainable AI ecosystem in Nigeria,” he declared. He further urged interested parties to apply for the grant, providing a link for applications.
Promoting growth in key sectors
The scheme’s website highlighted the specific sectors that the initiative aims to bolster through AI integration. These key areas encompass Agriculture, Education and Workforce, Finance, Governance, Healthcare, Utility, and Sustainability. The focus on these critical sectors underlines the government’s determination to leverage AI for substantial improvements and advancements across various industries.
Eligibility criteria and application process
In adherence to the guidelines set by the Ministry, applicants must form a consortium that includes either a startup or technology company, a Nigerian academic researcher, or a foreign researcher. Moreover, their proposed research should align with the Ministry’s AI priority areas. A detailed project outline that demonstrates its potential impact on the Nigerian economy is also mandatory. Additionally, a proven track record of excellence in research or entrepreneurship is required, along with the ability to publish at least one peer-reviewed article within a year of receiving the grant.
The application window for this scheme commenced on October 13, 2023, and will run until November 15, 2023. The Ministry has stressed that all applications must be submitted through the designated online channel provided. A panel of AI experts will evaluate the proposals, with shortlisted candidates notified via email and invited for further interviews.
With this groundbreaking initiative, Nigeria is poised to witness a remarkable surge in AI-driven research and innovation, solidifying its position on the global map as a burgeoning hub for cutting-edge AI technology application.
