Meta Partners with Nigerian Government to Launch AI Training Program

Meta has announced the launch of AI Academy Nigeria, a comprehensive program designed to equip developers, startups, and young professionals with practical artificial intelligence skills. The initiative is in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (FMCIDE), the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program, the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), and Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria (RAIN).

The AI Academy will operate through three key streams: AI Skills Development, a Startup Pitchathon, and a Developer Bootcamp. The first stream offers free courses on generative AI fundamentals using Meta’s models, delivered via platforms like Coursera, DeepLearning.AI, and DataCamp. Top performers can earn scholarships and up to $5,000 in advertising credits.

The Startup Pitchathon provides early-stage companies utilizing Meta’s AI technologies with a chance to present their solutions for cash funding and additional support. Winners will receive $5,000 each plus an all-expenses-paid trip to Turkey to pitch at Meta’s AI Summit.

“Nigeria is home to some of Africa’s most dynamic AI talent,” said Sade Dada, Head of Public Policy for Anglophone West Africa at Meta. “But founders and developers need greater access to practical training, funding, and platforms to build impactful solutions.”

The program aligns with Nigeria’s broader digital transformation goals and aims to position the country as a leading AI innovation hub in Africa.

Applications for the Startup Pitchathon are open until August 21st. For more information and registration details, visit [link to official website/application portal].