Nigeria has launched its first large multilingual language model (LLM). The launch was announced by the Communications Minister, Dr. Bosun Tijani, on Friday, following a 4-day AI workshop held in Abuja.
According to Tijani, the launch of the AI tool was facilitated through a collaboration involving Nigerian AI firm Awarritech, global tech company DataDotOrg, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the National Centre for AI and Robotics (NCAIR). The Minister stated that over 120 AI experts participated in the workshop, leading to the production of an initial draft of Nigeria’s National AI Strategy.
Tijani revealed that the National AI Strategy has received $3.5 million in seed funding from interested partners, including the UNDP, UNESCO, Meta, Google, Microsoft, Luminate, Lagos Business School, Data Science Nigeria,
NITDA, and agencies under the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy. The funding includes $1.5 million directly and an additional $2 million from 21st Century Technologies for the pilot program.
Additionally, Tijani revealed major advancements and collaborations to speed up AI development in Nigeria. These efforts feature a partnership involving 21st Century Technologies, Galaxy Backbone, and NCAIR Nigeria to support AI initiatives of national significance.
The launch of the multilingual language model and the unveiling of the National AI Strategy show Nigeria’s dedication to enhancing AI skills and establishing itself as a leader in AI development across Africa.
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