Microsoft, in partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria (FG), has trained more than 350,000 Nigerians in artificial intelligence (AI) skills under a national capacity-building programme aimed at accelerating the country’s digital transformation.

The training was delivered through the AI National Skills Initiative (AINSI), a collaborative effort involving Microsoft, Data Science Nigeria and Lagos Business School. The programme focuses on equipping participants with practical knowledge in AI fundamentals, data analytics, machine learning and real-world applications across key sectors of the economy.

The initiative forms part of Microsoft’s broader skills development collaboration with the Federal Government, which has supported digital training for over four million Nigerians since 2021. It aligns with the government’s strategy to strengthen human capital, boost innovation and position Nigeria competitively in the global digital economy.

Speaking on the programme, Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana’s General Manager, Abideen Yusuf, emphasised the importance of building AI capacity at scale, noting that emerging technologies are increasingly shaping productivity, governance and economic growth.

The AINSI programme includes online learning, workshops and partner-led training sessions, with future phases expected to expand access to AI and cybersecurity skills for more Nigerians across the public and private sectors.