Meta has teamed up with Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy (FMCIDE), the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) to launch the Llama Impact Accelerator program.
This 8-month program aims to empower early-stage Nigerian startups to create impactful AI solutions using open-source Llama models. The focus areas are Agriculture, Security & Safety, and Healthcare, with a “wild card” category for other innovative AI applications.
The program emphasizes open innovation and includes a six-week incubation phase where selected teams will receive technical training and mentorship from AI experts. This is followed by six months of extended support, including access to additional technical resources.
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Sade Dada, Head of Public Policy, Anglophone West Africa at Meta, expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting Nigeria’s strong innovation ecosystem. She stated that by making open-source AI more accessible and relevant to local challenges, the program seeks to drive national development and create community impact.
The Accelerator aims to equip Nigerian innovators with the latest tools and support to build responsible AI solutions, leveraging the country’s growing tech ecosystem and AI talent.
Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, emphasized that this partnership is a significant step towards developing a thriving AI ecosystem in Nigeria. He views AI as a crucial driver for national development and believes the program will provide innovators with the necessary tools and guidance to address pressing issues.
This Llama Impact Accelerator programme aligns with Meta’s commitment to democratizing access to responsible AI and supporting local innovation in Nigeria. The Accelerator will work with government partners, academia, and civil society to foster an inclusive AI community in the country.
Applications are open until June 27, 2025, and more information is available at llamaimpactssa.splashthat.com.
