LAGOS, NIGERIA – In a significant move to boost Nigeria’s tech capabilities, Google has unveiled “Build with AI,” a new programme designed to train 1,000 Nigerian developers in cutting-edge generative artificial intelligence (AI) skills.
Partnering with leading tech education company GOMYCODE, the initiative aims to empower participants to create innovative, locally relevant solutions that can compete globally. This comes as industries across Nigeria increasingly look to technology to solve key challenges and drive economic growth.
Bridging the AI Skills Gap
John Kimani, Head of Developer Ecosystem for Google in Sub-Saharan Africa, called the programme a pivotal step for Nigeria’s role in the global AI economy.
“We are witnessing a technological renaissance in Nigeria, driven by a vibrant community of developers who are eager to solve the challenges around them,” Kimani stated. He emphasized the broader vision: > “Our collaboration with GOMYCODE is about more than just training; it’s about empowering this community with the tools and expertise they need to build the future.”
Kimani explained that “Build with AI” directly addresses the gap between raw talent and the specialized skills needed in today’s AI landscape. Participants will gain hands-on experience with advanced Google AI tools like Gemini, learning under guidance from Google experts.
Focus on Practical, Sector-Specific Solutions
The 11-week intensive programme won’t be theoretical. Delivered through GOMYCODE’s network of hacker spaces, it blends in-person teaching with mentored lab work.
“This approach ensures that the training is both accessible and practical, allowing developers to immediately apply their learning to real-world projects,” Kimani added.
Training will specifically target developing AI-powered solutions for critical Nigerian sectors:
- Fintech (financial technology)
- Healthtech (health technology)
- Agritech (agricultural technology)
This focus aims to position Nigerian developers as leaders in Africa’s ongoing digital transformation.
Local Expertise Meets Global Curriculum
Babatunde Olaifa, Country Director for GOMYCODE Nigeria, highlighted their role in providing the necessary infrastructure and local knowledge.
“We are creating an environment where innovation can thrive, and we are incredibly excited to see the solutions that will emerge from this programme built by Nigerians, for Nigeria and the world,” Olaifa said. He added, > “This partnership allows GOMYCODE to bring world-class curriculum and technology directly to Nigerian developers.”
Call for Developers & Demo Day
Applications for the “Build with AI” programme are now open to developers across Nigeria. The training journey will culminate in a demo day, where top participants will showcase their newly built AI solutions to Google experts and industry leaders.
Why This Matters for Nigeria
This initiative represents a major investment in Nigeria’s tech talent pool, Africa’s largest economy. By equipping developers with generative AI skills – technology capable of creating text, images, code, and more – Google and GOMYCODE aim to fuel homegrown innovation that tackles local problems while creating globally competitive products and services. It signals strong confidence in Nigeria’s potential as a key player in the future of AI.
