The Federal Government has commenced a large-scale training programme aimed at equipping civil servants with Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills to improve efficiency, transparency, and innovation across ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). The initiative is part of Nigeria’s broader digital transformation agenda, designed to enhance public sector productivity and align government operations with global technological standards.
According to officials from the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), the training targets workers at federal, state, and local government levels. Participants will learn practical AI applications, including process automation, digital data management, smart service delivery, and analytical tools that support policy-making.
The training, which is being delivered through partnerships with tech firms, universities, and AI research institutions, is expected to reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, speed up citizen services, strengthen accountability, and promote data-driven decision-making. Government representatives noted that as AI reshapes workplaces globally, Nigeria must ensure that its public service workforce remains competitive and capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving digital economy.
Civil servants who complete the programme will be integrated into new technology-driven work structures within their MDAs, while additional training phases will focus on cybersecurity, digital ethics, and responsible AI use to prevent misuse of emerging technologies.
Analysts say the initiative signals a major step toward modernizing governance and improving service delivery in sectors like healthcare, education, transportation, and public finance. The programme is also expected to support Nigeria’s economic diversification strategy by creating a more agile and responsive public administration system.
Sources
Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation
Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy
National Information Technology Development Agency
Tech industry and digital governance analysts
