In a major boost for the nation’s tech sector, Meta has announced the launch of AI Academy Nigeria in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy (FMCIDE), and key industry players like Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria (RAIN). The initiative aims to strengthen Nigeria’s artificial intelligence talent pool through practical training, startup support, and access to cutting-edge resources.

The comprehensive program includes three core components:

  1. AI Skills Development: Free online courses covering generative AI fundamentals, prompt engineering with Meta’s Llama models, and applications of AI in various industries (marketing, data analytics).
  2. Startup Pitchathon: A competition for early-stage companies leveraging Meta’s AI technologies to solve real-world problems, with a chance to win up to $5,000 in funding each.
  3. Developer Bootcamp: An intensive six-week program focused on building functional AI products with guidance from industry experts and access to Meta’s network.

The Startup Pitchathon offers particularly exciting opportunities: shortlisted startups will pitch at GITEX Nigeria 2026, with two winners receiving cash prizes and an all-expenses-paid trip to the AI Summit by Meta in Istanbul where they’ll compete on a global stage.

“Through this partnership, we are equipping developers, entrepreneurs, and young professionals with practical AI skills while creating pathways for innovation,” said Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy. “This initiative further positions Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s digital economy.”

Sade Dada from Meta added that the academy was built to provide Nigerians with greater access to training, funding, and platforms needed to build impactful AI solutions.

The AI Academy aligns with Nigeria’s 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program, which seeks to create a skilled workforce ready for the digital economy. Applications for the Startup Pitchathon are open until August 21, 2026, at aiacademynigerialaunch.splashthat.com