Google has reported a significant surge in interest in Artificial Intelligence (AI) among Nigerians, with searches related to AI increasing by 130% in 2024 compared to the previous year. This information was revealed by Mr. Olumide Balogun, Google’s Director for West Africa, in a statement on Wednesday.
Balogun highlighted that the global interest in AI has reached unprecedented levels, with Nigeria showing a particularly strong increase. “In Nigeria, searches on AI doubled by 130% between January to July 2024 as against the same period in 2023,” he said. This rise in interest places Nigeria as the sixth highest in Africa and 25th globally in terms of AI-related searches.
Nigerians are not just curious about AI; they are eager to learn how to use it effectively. According to Google’s data, searches in Nigeria for topics like “cybersecurity and AI” have increased by 80%, while “AI and healthcare” searches have surged by over 140%. Additionally, there has been a 50% increase in searches related to “AI and medicine.”
Balogun emphasized the transformative potential of AI, noting that it can drive innovation and social and economic progress. “AI has the potential to create opportunities from the extraordinary to the everyday for everyone, bringing new waves of innovation, social and economic progress,” he stated.
He added that Nigerians are actively seeking ways to integrate AI into their careers, creativity, and broader society. For instance, searches for “AI and courses” have gone up by 50%, “AI and business” by 110%, and “AI and jobs” by a staggering 640%.
In line with its commitment to using AI for positive societal change, Google offers free AI training programs across Africa, including through its Hustle Academy. This initiative, designed for entrepreneurs, includes modules that teach participants how to use AI to enhance their businesses. Since its launch in 2022, the Hustle Academy has empowered over 10,000 businesses.
Furthermore, Google supports AI-focused startups in Africa through its Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program. These initiatives underscore Google’s dedication to harnessing AI to address some of the continent’s most pressing challenges.
The News Agency of Nigeria also reports that Google is using AI to tackle significant issues beyond Nigeria. In Ghana, Google’s AI Center is collaborating with InstaDeep and the United Nations to detect and control locust outbreaks. In Kenya, Google is working with Jacaranda Health to improve maternal care.