OpenAI has selected the University of Lagos (UNILAG) as the site of its first Artificial Intelligence Academy in Africa, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s push to become a continental leader in technology and innovation, according to local reports.

The announcement was made during UNILAG’s 2025 International Week, held in Akoka, Lagos, under the theme “Equitable Partnerships and the Future of AI in Africa.” The event brought together academics, innovators, government officials, and industry leaders to explore ways to advance inclusive technological growth on the continent.

Emmanuel Lubanzadio, OpenAI’s Africa Lead, said the decision to establish the academy in Lagos was based on UNILAG’s growing reputation in artificial intelligence research and its commitment to equitable partnerships. “AI can be a great equaliser, and that is why OpenAI is adamant about providing access to all,” he said. “The OpenAI Academy will nurture African talent and ensure that innovation isn’t concentrated in a few hands, but democratised across communities.”

The launch of the OpenAI Academy is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s digital ecosystem and expand access to advanced AI education and research. The initiative also aligns with the government’s ongoing digital transformation efforts.

Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, praised UNILAG’s leadership, noting that the Tinubu Administration is investing in a national fibre-optic network to connect all 774 local government areas with high-speed internet. “Access to the capacity to innovate and create value must be democratised among all Nigerians,” he said.

Private sector leaders also welcomed the development. Yvonne Ike, Managing Director and Head of Sub-Saharan Africa at Bank of America, commended UNILAG for producing globally competitive graduates and said Africa’s strength in the AI era lies in its human capital. “Our future doesn’t depend on the technology itself; it depends on who builds, deploys, and benefits from it,” she said.