By EMMANUEL JONATHAN

The Federal Government has unveiled a free Artificial Intelligence (AI) Academy with the aim of positioning Nigeria as a leader in the global digital economy.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, who inaugurated the AI Academy on Thursday in Abuja, said the programme was set up in partnership with the Commonwealth Secretariat and Intel Corporation.

While emphasising that the online programme was free, the minister called on all Nigerians particularly students, youths and civil servants to avail themselves of the opportunity to be part of a movement that would redefine the future of the nation.

?The AI Academy is free and the registration is open from today and will run until Jan. 30, 2025.

?I encourage you to visit our website at https://scienceandtech.gov.ng/academy and seize this chance to acquire cutting-edge AI skills.

?The AI Academy is not just a training platform but a transformative opportunity for Nigerians?students, youths and civil servants?to acquire critical skills in AI.

?In a world where AI is reshaping industries, solving complex problems and creating new economic frontiers, it is imperative that Nigeria not only keeps pace, but leads the charge.?

The minister said that the programme would provide participants with access to self-paced courses on AI fundamentals, ethics, tools and real-world applications.

He said that beyond learning the AI Technology, it offered opportunities to compete for AI ambassadorial roles and internships with Intel Corporation as well as ensuring hands-on global experience.

Nnaji said that the role of AI in nation-building could not be over emphasised as AI was no longer a distant concept.

He said that it was a transformative tool that could drive progress in agriculture, healthcare, education, security and many other sectors.

?By equipping Nigerians with these skills, we are not just preparing individuals for jobs but creating a pipeline of innovators, problem-solvers and leaders who will shape Nigeria?s technological and economic destiny.

?Most importantly, AI will go a long way to help us develop innovative solutions for the unique challenges we face as a nation.??

Nnaji expressed gratitude to the Commonwealth Secretariat and Intel Corporation for their unwavering support in bringing the vision to life.

He said that the collaboration reflected the power of international partnerships in driving innovation and sustainable development.

?Together, we are showcasing the power of collaboration between government, industry and international organisations.

?As we unveil the AI Academy, we are laying the foundation for a new era of innovation; one where Nigeria takes its rightful place as a leader in the global digital economy,? he said. (NAN)

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