In a bold step toward becoming a continental leader in artificial intelligence, Nigeria has partnered with Meta to launch the Nigeria AI Accelerator Programme. Announced through the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, the initiative aims to empower AI startups to address key socio-economic challenges. This collaboration signifies a broader governmental push to integrate advanced technologies into national development strategies.
Programme Overview: Focus on Impactful AI Solutions
The accelerator will support early-stage startups that use open-source Llama models to develop solutions in agriculture, security, healthcare, and a wildcard category for high-impact innovations in other sectors. Operated by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and its research arm, the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), the programme will run from August to December 2025. Participants will benefit from technical mentorship, infrastructure access, and an incubation period designed to translate ideas into viable AI-driven products.
Meta’s Role and Broader Vision
Meta is playing a central role by offering its AI resources, including its Llama models, and by providing mentorship through global experts in artificial intelligence. The tech giant’s involvement aligns with its broader strategy to democratize access to responsible AI and support innovation ecosystems in Africa. Sade Dada, Head of Public Policy for Anglophone West Africa at Meta, emphasized that making open-source AI more accessible can drive community-focused solutions and support national development.
Government’s Commitment to Innovation
Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has framed the programme as a strategic move to keep Nigeria globally competitive in technology. He noted that the initiative is not solely about adopting new tools but about embedding innovation into Nigeria’s economic and social systems. By working with Meta, the government aims to harness global expertise while nurturing local talent to build long-term, sustainable solutions.
Building on Previous Tech Partnerships
The Nigeria AI Accelerator follows a growing trend of the Nigerian government partnering with major global tech firms. In 2024, the government collaborated with Google to launch a ₦100 million AI fund and later secured a $1.5 million commitment supported by Luminate. These initiatives, along with Google's $5.8 million regional AI training commitment, have laid the groundwork for an ambitious national AI agenda.
Institutional and Strategic Foundations
The newly launched programme also builds on earlier efforts to develop a National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which began in 2023. That framework aimed to unite domestic and diaspora talent to shape Nigeria’s institutional approach to AI. With this new accelerator, the government is putting those strategic ideas into practice, combining policy with concrete support mechanisms for startups.
Application and Programme Details
Applications for the Llama Impact Accelerator are currently open and will close on July 12, 2025. Selected participants will undergo a six-week incubation phase followed by six months of extended support, concluding in a demo day showcasing their innovations. The programme will not only foster the development of high-impact AI solutions but also serve as a proving ground for Nigeria’s commitment to becoming a digital powerhouse in Africa.
The launch of the Nigeria AI Accelerator Programme marks a significant milestone in the country’s digital transformation journey. Through a strong public-private partnership with Meta, Nigeria is laying the foundation for a robust, inclusive, and innovation-driven AI ecosystem. As other African nations observe closely, this initiative positions Nigeria as a leading voice in shaping the future of AI on the continent.