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Nigeria Partners with Meta to Launch AI Accelerator and Deepen Tech Collaboration
Nigeria partners with Meta to launch a new AI accelerator program aimed at supporting startups that develop artificial intelligence solutions tailored to the country’s unique needs. This Meta AI accelerator, called the Nigeria AI Accelerator Programme, is a major step in Nigeria’s goal to become a leading center for AI innovation in Africa.
The Nigerian Federal Government, through the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, is working closely with Meta to run this program. It will be managed by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR). The accelerator will help startups that use Meta’s open-source Llama AI models to create tools and applications in important areas like agriculture, healthcare, financial services, and education.
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Selected startups will get access to technical resources, expert mentorship, and ongoing support to develop their AI projects. The program will start with a six-week incubation phase providing intensive training and guidance, followed by six months of extended support. The first group of participants will run from August to December 2025. Applications are open now and will close on July 12, 2025.
This partnership between Nigeria and Meta builds on Nigeria’s growing efforts to involve big technology companies in national innovation. In 2024, Nigeria partnered with Google to launch a ₦100 million AI fund supporting local startups, followed by a $1.5 million investment with help from Luminate. Google also committed $5.8 million to boost AI training in sub-Saharan Africa. By joining forces with Meta, Nigeria is expanding its presence on the global AI stage and gaining access to international best practices and networks in machine learning and generative AI.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, said the initiative is not just about technology but about making sure Nigeria’s innovation economy stays competitive and inclusive worldwide. He emphasized that AI is a key driver for national development and that the Meta AI accelerator will equip innovators with the right tools and support to address Nigeria’s most pressing challenges.
Meta’s involvement also reflects its commitment to making responsible AI more accessible and relevant to local problems. Sade Dada, Meta’s Head of Public Policy for Anglophone West Africa, highlighted that the company aims to empower communities by supporting the development of impactful AI solutions in Nigeria.
Nigeria partners with Meta to launch an AI accelerator as part of a broader strategy to foster public-private collaborations in high-impact sectors. It aligns with Nigeria’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which seeks to bring together local and diaspora talent to build a strong institutional framework for AI growth in the country.
As the program begins, Nigeria is positioning itself as a regional leader in AI innovation, with strong support from global tech players like Meta. The accelerator will help nurture a thriving AI ecosystem that can create sustainable solutions for Nigeria’s economic and social challenges, while inspiring other African countries to follow suit.
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