Microsoft is quietly transforming Nigeria’s digital future, actively training millions in skills that will shape tomorrow.
Since 2021, the tech giant has partnered with the Federal Government to train over four million Nigerians, equipping them for a rapidly evolving digital economy.
Microsoft Drives Digital Transformation
Recently, at a Lagos roundtable, Microsoft West Africa’s Director for Government Affairs, Nonye Ujam, highlighted the programme’s tangible impact.
She explained, “350,000 students have joined specialised programmes, 63,000 completed structured training, and 43,000 earned global certifications.”
Moreover, Microsoft now plans to train an additional 350,000 Nigerians in artificial intelligence under its National Skills Initiative.
Data Science Nigeria and Lagos Business School are supporting AI-focused programmes, ensuring participants gain both technical and ethical skills.
Building Skills For The Future
Ujam emphasised that developer-focused initiatives actively create a strong talent pipeline, preparing Nigeria’s workforce for the digital economy.
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Meanwhile, government-led projects such as Developers in Government (DevsInGov) and the Three Million Technical Talent Initiative (3MTT) help public sector developers acquire new skills.
Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana Country General Manager, Abideen Yusuf, warned of the urgent need for AI adoption, noting that Nigeria’s rate stands at 8.7%, slightly below the Sub-Saharan average.
He added, “Nigeria cannot afford to wait.
Countries that act fastest on skills will lead the AI-driven future.”
Additionally, Lagos Business School has trained 99 leaders from 58 public agencies, equipping them with AI knowledge, governance, and ethics.
Data Science Nigeria actively reaches grassroots learners, combining technical instruction with practical community projects.
Expanding Digital Literacy Nationwide
Furthermore, federal initiatives like AWS partnerships, teacher training, and DL4ALL expand digital literacy nationwide.
By 2030, Nigeria aims to achieve nearly full digital literacy, and over a million Enugu residents will benefit from the programme.
From classrooms to government offices, Microsoft and the Federal Government continue shaping a digitally ready, future-focused workforce.
