Future of AI in Nigeria: Google and GOMYCODE Unveils ‘Build with AI’ Programme to Train 1,000 Nigerian Developers in Generative AI Technologies
In a strategic effort to enhance Nigeria’s capacity in emerging digital technologies, Google has launched an ambitious new initiative titled “Build with AI”, aimed at training 1,000 developers across the country in generative artificial intelligence (AI). This programme is designed not only to build technical expertise but also to empower local developers to create innovative, contextually relevant, and globally competitive digital solutions.
The initiative is being rolled out in collaboration with GOMYCODE, a technology-focused education and training organization known for equipping learners with practical, in-demand digital skills. Through this partnership, Google aims to provide Nigerian developers with both the tools and guidance required to become key contributors to the fast-evolving global AI ecosystem.
A Step Towards Inclusive Digital Transformation
John Kimani, who serves as the Head of Developer Ecosystem for Google in Sub-Saharan Africa, described the initiative as a landmark moment for Nigeria’s digital and technological development. According to Kimani, Nigeria is experiencing a technological renaissance, powered by a growing community of passionate developers eager to find innovative solutions to the country’s unique challenges.
“We are currently witnessing an exciting era of technological awakening in Nigeria,” Kimani noted. “Our collaboration with GOMYCODE goes beyond skill-building. It’s about enabling a new generation of developers to access advanced tools and knowledge that will allow them to shape the future—not just for Nigeria, but for the African continent and beyond.”
Kimani also emphasized the timely nature of this initiative. As industries throughout Nigeria and the wider African region increasingly adopt technology to solve critical problems, there is a growing need for skilled professionals capable of leveraging AI to drive economic and social progress.
By offering participants access to advanced AI tools such as Gemini, along with a curriculum developed and delivered by Google experts, the programme is structured to bridge the gap between raw talent and the specialized expertise required in the field of artificial intelligence.
Industry-Specific Impact
The training will have a sector-specific focus, targeting areas such as financial technology (fintech), healthcare technology (healthtech), and agricultural technology (agritech). These sectors are viewed as critical pillars for Nigeria’s development, and by empowering developers to design AI-powered solutions tailored to these industries, the programme positions them at the forefront of Africa’s digital and economic transformation.
Practical, Hands-On Learning Model
The programme, which spans 11 weeks, will be implemented through GOMYCODE’s network of hacker spaces across Nigeria. It combines in-person instruction with hands-on, mentored lab sessions designed to ensure that learners gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge.
“This blended approach guarantees that participants are not only learning in a classroom setting but are also immediately applying those concepts to real-life projects,” Kimani explained. “It’s a practical and effective method that encourages deep understanding and innovation.”
Supporting Local Talent and Innovation
Babatunde Olaifa, Country Director at GOMYCODE Nigeria, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to fostering innovation in the Nigerian tech landscape.
“We are proud to provide the infrastructure and local knowledge necessary to help Nigeria’s tech talent reach its full potential,” Olaifa said. “This initiative creates a space where creativity can flourish, and we are genuinely excited to see the innovative solutions that Nigerian developers will produce—not just for local challenges, but for global audiences.”
Olaifa added that the partnership allows GOMYCODE to bring a world-class curriculum and cutting-edge technology directly to aspiring developers across the country.
Open for Applications
Applications for the “Build with AI” programme are currently open to developers across Nigeria, regardless of background or previous experience. At the end of the training, a demo day will be held, where the most promising participants will showcase their AI-driven innovations to a panel that includes representatives from Google and key industry stakeholders.
This initiative represents a major investment in Nigeria’s digital future and underscores Google’s broader commitment to supporting talent development and innovation throughout Africa.
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