Nigeria Emerges as Global Leader in AI Adoption for Learning and Work

Nigeria is rapidly positioning itself as one of the world’s leading adopters of artificial intelligence, particularly in learning, work, and entrepreneurial activities, according to a new report released by Google.

The report, titled Our Life with AI: Helpfulness in the Hands of More People and developed in collaboration with research firm Ipsos, highlights Nigeria’s growing embrace of AI tools and the strong optimism surrounding their impact on education, productivity, and economic opportunity.

Findings from the study indicate that artificial intelligence is increasingly seen in Nigeria as a catalyst for innovation, skills development, and self-employment, especially within the country’s expanding digital economy.

According to the report, 88 per cent of Nigerian adults have used an AI chatbot, representing a sharp increase from the previous year and placing Nigeria well above the global average of 62 per cent. This level of engagement underscores the country’s prominence in global AI usage.

AI has become a significant learning aid for Nigerians, with 93 per cent of users reporting that they rely on AI tools to better understand complex subjects. This compares with a global average of 74 per cent, highlighting the technology’s role in supporting education and personal development.

In professional settings, AI adoption is equally strong. About 91 per cent of Nigerian respondents said they use AI tools to support their work, reflecting the growing integration of artificial intelligence into business operations, freelancing, and corporate environments.

Entrepreneurship and career development are also key areas where AI is making an impact. The report found that 80 per cent of Nigerians use AI tools to explore new business ideas or evaluate potential career changes, nearly double the global average of 42 per cent.

Commenting on the findings, Google’s Communications and Public Affairs Manager for West Africa, Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, said the report demonstrates how Nigerians are actively leveraging AI to expand opportunities in education, professional growth, and economic participation.

He noted that the results go beyond high usage figures, reflecting a broader narrative of a country using technology strategically to shape its future and accelerate progress.

Optimism about the role of artificial intelligence in education remains particularly strong. The study revealed that 91 per cent of Nigerians believe AI has a positive influence on learning and access to information, compared with a global figure of 65 per cent. Additionally, 95 per cent of respondents said university students and educators are likely to benefit significantly from AI-driven tools.

Overall sentiment toward artificial intelligence in Nigeria is overwhelmingly positive. About 80 per cent of respondents expressed excitement about the potential of AI, while only a small minority voiced concern. Among frequent AI users, enthusiasm rises further, with nine in ten expressing confidence in the technology’s future.

The report concludes that Nigeria’s strong adoption rates, combined with widespread optimism, position the country as a leading example of how emerging economies can harness artificial intelligence to drive learning, productivity, and economic empowerment.