Byline: IDNN Tech & Innovation Desk
Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has been recognised on the TIME100 AI 2025 list, spotlighting the most influential global figures driving the future of artificial intelligence.
Tijani, a former tech entrepreneur who transitioned into policymaking, has become a central figure in shaping Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda. At the heart of his push is the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program, a flagship initiative aimed at equipping three million Nigerians with digital and technical skills by 2027.
“We may not have the compute and infrastructure, but we do have the talent,” Tijani told TIME, underlining his conviction that Nigeria’s demographic dividend can power the next wave of global innovation.
Since its launch, the 3MTT program has already trained nearly 300,000 Nigerians through a blend of online platforms and 220 in-person learning centers across the country. The scheme goes beyond classroom training, creating direct pathways to employment.
Strategic partnerships have been forged to scale opportunities. Collaborations with the United Nations-European Union are providing fellows with internship access, while local companies such as Awarri, a data labeling startup, have begun recruiting program graduates.
Analysts say Tijani’s inclusion in the TIME100 AI list reflects both his personal influence and the broader rise of African innovation talent in the global AI ecosystem.
His recognition comes at a time when Nigeria is aggressively positioning itself as Africa’s digital hub, despite challenges in infrastructure and access to high-end compute. By leveraging talent development and global partnerships, Tijani argues that Nigeria can punch above its weight in AI adoption and innovation.
The TIME100 AI honour cements his role not just as a policymaker, but as a trailblazer advocating Africa’s place in the global digital order.
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