By Milcah Tanimu

Nigeria ranks sixth in Africa and 25th globally for search interest in Artificial Intelligence (AI), according to Google’s “New Search Trends” report. The report reveals a dramatic 130% increase in AI-related searches in Nigeria compared to the previous year.

The surge in AI interest in Nigeria includes significant searches for AI applications such as creating logos, CVs, websites, and flyers, which have seen over 5,000% growth. There’s also a rising demand for AI education, with searches for AI courses up by 50%. Interest in AI’s impact on business and job opportunities has surged, with searches for AI-related jobs increasing by 640%.

The report also highlights increased searches for AI applications in cybersecurity, healthcare, and STEM, with notable rises in interest. AI in cybersecurity saw an 80% increase, while AI in healthcare experienced a 140% surge.

Google’s West Africa Director, Olumide Balogun, emphasized the potential of AI to drive innovation and progress. In support of this growing interest, Google offers initiatives like the Hustle Academy, which provides free AI training for entrepreneurs, and the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program, which supports AI-driven startups. Since its launch in 2022, Hustle Academy has empowered over 10,000 businesses, and the accelerator has selected 10 AI-focused ventures for its 2024 cohort.