The Ogun State Government, in partnership with the Bosun Tijani Foundation, has officially launched the Gen AI Fellowship Programme, a six-month intensive training initiative aimed at empowering Nigeria’s next generation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) developers.
The fellowship was announced by Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, via a post on X (formerly Twitter). The programme is part of Nigeria’s broader commitment to digital transformation, workforce readiness, and AI leadership across Africa.
What is the Gen AI Fellowship Programme?
The Gen AI Fellowship Programme is designed to equip young Nigerian developers with world-class AI skills, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications of machine learning, generative AI, data science, and more.
All selected participants will receive a monthly stipend throughout the six-month training period.“Are you ready to become part of Nigeria’s next generation of AI innovators?” asked Dr. Tijani. “Don’t miss this opportunity to level up your tech journey and help shape Nigeria’s AI future.”
How to Apply for the Gen AI Fellowship
Interested applicants must complete a two-step registration process via the official portal: http://aifellowship.ogunstate.gov.ng
Step 1: NIN Verification
Candidates must first verify their National Identification Number (NIN) to proceed.
Step 2: Fellowship Registration
After successful NIN verification, applicants can fill out the registration form with personal and professional details.
Why This Matters: Building Nigeria’s AI Talent Pipeline
This fellowship is the latest in a series of government-backed initiatives aimed at boosting AI literacy, technical skills, and youth employability in Nigeria. Since President Bola Tinubu assumed office, several flagship programmes have been launched, including:
- N120 Billion Youth Skills Acquisition Programme
Trains 60,000 young Nigerians every three months through certified tech hubs, offering starter packs and job-ready skills. - National AI Academy (in partnership with Intel & the Commonwealth Secretariat)
Launched in December 2024, the academy provides free self-paced AI courses, internship opportunities, and ambassador roles with Intel. - Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) + SBTS Group Partnership
Focused on Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and practical training through new hubs in Enugu and Kano, with support from the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
According to the IFC, over 230 million jobs in Sub-Saharan Africa will require digital skills by 2030—making initiatives like the Gen AI Fellowship vital for Nigeria’s economic future.
Key Takeaways:
- Programme: Gen AI Fellowship
- Duration: 6 months
- Organizer: Ogun State Government + Bosun Tijani Foundation
- Perks: Monthly stipends, hands-on AI training
- Application Portal: aifellowship.ogunstate.gov.ng
- Eligibility: Aspiring Nigerian developers with verified NIN
