TL;DR:
- Federal Government of Nigeria to award N5 million each to 45 startups and researchers in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).
- Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme aims to promote AI applications for economic growth.
- Eligible applicants must be consortia composed of startups, Nigerian university researchers, or foreign researchers.
- Grants will be awarded to projects in various sectors, including Agriculture, Education, Finance, Healthcare, and more.
- Application window opens from October 13, 2023, to November 15, 2023, via the designated online channel.
- Proposals will undergo evaluation by a panel of AI experts, with shortlisted candidates invited for interviews.
Main AI News:
In a move that underscores Nigeria’s commitment to advancing artificial intelligence (AI) research and innovation, the Federal Government has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative. The Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme, spearheaded by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, is set to bestow N5 million upon each of the 45 deserving startups and researchers specializing in AI.
This visionary scheme is designed to catalyze the widespread adoption of AI applications, ultimately contributing to economic growth and prosperity in Nigeria. Dr. Tijani shared this exciting development via a post on a reputable platform, highlighting the government’s determination to foster a thriving AI ecosystem within the country.
“Today, we are proud to announce the launch of the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme, an initiative aimed at providing critical support to 45 consortia comprising startups and dedicated researchers. Our goal is to empower them to delve deeper into their work and establish a sustainable AI landscape in Nigeria,” stated Dr. Tijani.
As part of the initiative, the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy is extending an invitation to researchers and startups engaged in AI-related endeavors to apply for grants of up to N5 million. This significant financial backing is a cornerstone of the Ministry’s broader strategy to drive innovation, enhance productivity across vital sectors, and solidify Nigeria’s standing as a global hub for AI technology application.
The Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme is casting its net wide, encompassing a diverse range of sectors, including Agriculture, Education and Workforce, Finance, Governance, Healthcare, Utility, and Sustainability. To be eligible for this prestigious grant, applicants must form a consortium comprising a startup or technology company, a Nigerian university researcher, or even a foreign researcher, all in line with the Ministry’s eligibility criteria.
Mark your calendars, as the application window for this transformative initiative is set to open on October 13, 2023, and will remain accessible until November 15, 2023. Prospective applicants are required to submit their proposals through the designated online platform provided by the Ministry.
The evaluation process promises to be rigorous and impartial, with a panel of esteemed AI experts assessing the submissions. Shortlisted applicants will receive notifications via email and will be invited for an interview, marking the first step on their journey to revolutionizing the landscape of AI research and development in Nigeria.
Conclusion:
The Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme represents a significant step towards fostering innovation and AI development in Nigeria. By providing substantial financial support to startups and researchers across multiple sectors, it positions Nigeria as a potential global hub for AI technology application. This initiative is poised to drive economic growth and enhance the country’s competitive edge in the AI market.
