Nigeria launches “AI Research Scheme” to drive innovation and digital progress

To boost innovation and digital progress in Nigeria, Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has introduced the “Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme.” This initiative is designed to provide financial support to startups and researchers, aiming to create a vibrant and sustainable artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem within Nigeria.

The program is set to fund 45 consortia, comprising startups and researchers, enabling them to further explore and expand their AI-related projects. The ultimate goal is to position Nigeria as a global hub for AI technology applications and drive innovation and productivity in critical sectors.

Here are some key highlights from the initiative:

• Funding Support: Eligible AI researchers and startups can apply for grants of up to N5,000,000 (Five million Naira).
• Focus Areas: The funding will be directed toward research and development efforts in various sectors, including Agriculture, Education and Workforce, Finance, Governance, Healthcare, Utility, and Sustainability.
• Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for the funding, applicants must form a consortium, which includes a startup or technology company, a Nigerian academic researcher, or a foreign researcher. Their research proposal should align with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy’s AI priority areas. Furthermore, applicants are required to provide a detailed proposal outlining their project and its potential impact on the Nigerian economy. A track record of excellence in research or entrepreneurship is a key requirement. Successful applicants must be able to publish at least one peer-reviewed article within one year of receiving the grant.
• Application Process: The application period for the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme begins on October 13, 2023, and ends on November 15, 2023. Applications should be submitted through the designated online channel. A panel of AI experts will evaluate the proposals, and shortlisted candidates will be notified for an interview. Successful applicants will receive confirmation via email.
• Selection Criteria: The grant applications will be reviewed by a panel of AI experts, considering factors such as the novelty and originality of the research proposal, the applicant’s track record in research or entrepreneurship, alignment of the research with the ministry’s AI priority areas, and the feasibility of the project.

This initiative is in line with the worldwide trend of using AI to boost economic growth. It involves using AI methods to improve decision-making by combining knowledge from different fields to create smart, data-driven decision-support systems.

Modern research is heavily focused on using AI to improve decision-making in economics. This involves applying AI knowledge and thinking methods to decision-making theory. By combining ideas and techniques from management, computer science, and related fields, AI aims to transform economic decision-making and provide smart solutions.

In the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme, researchers and innovators will be expected to contribute to knowledge representation, thinking processes, and intelligent decision-making in various economic domains, thus aiding decision-makers in making informed choices.

By empowering researchers and startups in the AI sector, Nigeria is taking significant steps to promote innovation, enhance productivity, and contribute to the country’s economic growth through advanced technologies.

As the application period opens, the Nigerian AI community eagerly awaits the opportunities and innovations that will emerge as a result of this important scheme.

For further details and the application process, interested researchers and startups can visit the official application link.