As countries race to build digitally skilled workforces, the question arises: should Nigeria introduce free AI training for all adults, similar to the UK model?
With rising youth unemployment, rapid digital transformation and increasing global competition, this debate could not be more timely.
The UK’s Approach to Free AI Training
The United Kingdom has taken significant steps to expand access to digital and AI skills. Through government-backed initiatives such as the Skills for Life programme, partnerships with universities and online training providers, and national digital strategies, adults across the country can access subsidised or free AI and data skills courses.
The aim is clear:
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Prepare workers for automation and emerging technologies
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Improve national productivity
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Reduce the digital skills gap
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Strengthen the country’s global competitiveness
AI training in the UK is not limited to tech specialists. It targets teachers, healthcare workers, small business owners and even job seekers. The policy recognises that AI literacy is becoming a fundamental skill, much like basic computing was two decades ago.
Nigeria’s Current Digital Landscape
Nigeria is Africa’s largest economy and has one of the youngest populations in the world. Its tech ecosystem, particularly in Lagos, is growing rapidly. However, digital inequality remains a serious concern.
Key challenges include:
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High youth unemployment
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Uneven internet access across regions
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Limited access to structured AI education
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Funding constraints in public education
While private tech hubs and start-ups are driving innovation, AI training remains inaccessible to many adults, particularly those outside major cities.
Why Free AI Training Could Benefit Nigeria
1. Tackling Unemployment and Underemployment
Nigeria’s labour market is under pressure. Automation is gradually reshaping sectors such as banking, logistics and customer service. Free AI training could help adults reskill and transition into emerging fields such as:
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Data analysis
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AI-assisted agriculture
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Digital marketing
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Automation management
By improving employability, Nigeria could reduce its dependence on traditional oil-based revenues and diversify its economy.
2. Boosting Economic Growth
Countries investing in AI are seeing increased productivity and innovation. If Nigeria were to adopt a structured national AI training strategy similar to the UK model, it could:
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Strengthen its tech start-up ecosystem
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Attract foreign investment
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Build exportable digital services
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Compete more effectively in the global digital economy
Africa’s AI market is projected to grow significantly over the next decade. Nigeria is well positioned to lead, but only if its workforce is prepared.
3. Reducing the Digital Divide
Free AI training would not only benefit urban professionals. It could empower:
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Farmers using AI-powered climate tools
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Healthcare workers using diagnostic software
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Small businesses adopting automation
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Teachers integrating AI into classrooms
However, success would depend heavily on improving broadband access and electricity infrastructure nationwide.
The Challenges Nigeria Must Consider
Adopting the UK model is not without complications.
Infrastructure Limitations
Unlike the United Kingdom, Nigeria continues to struggle to ensure a stable power supply and to expand internet penetration in rural areas. AI training requires reliable digital infrastructure, which remains uneven.
Funding and Policy Coordination
Free nationwide programmes require strong government funding and cross-ministerial coordination. Nigeria would need:
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Clear national AI policy
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Partnerships with universities and tech firms
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Transparent funding mechanisms
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Monitoring and evaluation frameworks
Quality Control
Rapid expansion of AI courses without proper oversight could lead to low-quality training. Certification standards and curriculum alignment would be essential.
Related: Should FG subsidise AI
Should Nigeria Replicate or Adapt the UK Model?
The answer may not lie in direct replication. Instead, Nigeria could adapt elements of the UK approach to suit its local realities.
A phased model might include:
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Pilot programmes in major cities
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Public–private partnerships with tech companies
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Mobile-friendly, low-bandwidth online learning platforms
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Community-based digital training centres
Rather than a universal rollout immediately, Nigeria could begin with high-demand sectors such as agriculture, fintech and healthcare.
The Bigger Picture: AI as a National Strategy
AI training is not merely an educational reform. It is a long-term economic strategy. Countries that ignore AI risk falling behind in productivity, innovation and global trade.
For Nigeria, the question is not whether AI will affect its workforce; it already is. The real question is whether policymakers will act early enough to prepare citizens.
Final Verdict: A Necessary Investment?
Should Nigeria follow the UK model of free AI training for all adults?
In principle, yes. But with adaptation, not imitation.
A carefully structured, infrastructure-aware and locally relevant AI training programme could:
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Reduce unemployment
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Boost innovation
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Improve competitiveness
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Strengthen economic resilience
If implemented thoughtfully, free AI training could become one of the most transformative public investments Nigeria makes in the 21st century.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AI training important for developing countries?
Yes. AI skills improve workforce adaptability, increase productivity and attract foreign investment.
Does Nigeria currently offer free AI courses?
Some private initiatives exist, but there is no comprehensive national programme comparable to the UK’s digital skills initiatives.
Can free AI training reduce unemployment in Nigeria?
It can contribute significantly by equipping adults with skills suited to emerging digital industries.
Director
Bio: An (HND, BA, MBA, MSc) is a tech-savvy digital marketing professional, writing on artificial intelligence, digital tools, and emerging technologies. He holds an HND in Marketing, is a Chartered Marketer, earned an MBA in Marketing Management from LAUTECH, a BA in Marketing Management and Web Technologies from York St John University, and an MSc in Social Business and Marketing Management from the University of Salford, Manchester.
He has professional experience across sales, hospitality, healthcare, digital marketing, and business development, and has worked with Sheraton Hotels, A24 Group, and Kendal Nutricare. A skilled editor and web designer, He focuses on simplifying complex technologies and highlighting AI-driven opportunities for businesses and professionals.