Nigeria has emerged as Africa’s highest-ranked country in the latest Global Index on Responsible AI (GIRAI), recording a significant rise in global rankings and earning recognition for its commitment to responsible artificial intelligence governance, digital skills development and AI literacy.
According to the second edition of the Global Index on Responsible AI, published by the Global Centre on AI Governance, Nigeria ranks 38th globally with an overall score of 45.93, making it the highest-ranked African country in the assessment.
The achievement represents a significant improvement from the inaugural 2024 edition, where the country placed 80th globally with a score of 7.21, climbing an impressive 42 places within two years.
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The latest rankings place Nigeria ahead of all other African nations assessed, with Egypt occupying the second position on the continent.
The development highlights Nigeria’s growing influence in advancing responsible, inclusive, and ethical AI governance, while strengthening its position as a leading voice from the Global South on the future of artificial intelligence.
Nigeria’s improved ranking reflects a series of strategic initiatives undertaken by the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.
These efforts include the development of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (NAIS), expansion of digital public infrastructure, investment in digital talent development, establishment of governance frameworks for emerging technologies, and stronger international partnerships aimed at promoting responsible AI deployment.
Commenting on the achievement, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, said: “This recognition is a testament to Nigeria’s deliberate efforts to build an AI ecosystem that is inclusive, responsible, and aligned with our development priorities. We believe that Africa must not only participate in the AI revolution but also contribute meaningfully to shaping how these technologies are governed and deployed globally. Our focus remains on creating the infrastructure, talent, and policy environment that will enable AI to deliver real value for our people and support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy.”
Beyond its ranking, Nigeria was also recognised by the report as a global “Bright Spot” for its efforts in promoting AI literacy while strengthening digital protections for children and vulnerable groups.
The report noted that Nigeria is among the few African countries taking deliberate steps to bridge the gap between AI skills development and safeguards against the risks associated with emerging technologies.
Particular recognition was given to the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which prioritises expanding AI literacy among citizens and provides for comprehensive AI skills development programmes, including teacher training and nationwide capacity-building initiatives.
The index also highlighted the Federal Government’s flagship 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT)programme, describing it as a major initiative delivering structured AI and Machine Learning training through a hybrid learning model designed to reach young Nigerians across the country.
In addition, the assessment commended Nigeria’s legal framework for protecting children’s personal data, particularly the Nigeria Data Protection Act and the General Application and Implementation Directive (GAID) 2025.
The Global Index on Responsible AI is regarded as one of the world’s most comprehensive evidence-based assessments of responsible AI governance. It evaluates countries across five critical dimensions: Inclusion and Diversity; Ethics and Sustainability; Labour and Skills; Trust and Safety; and AI Use in Public Service. The index measures the effectiveness of government policies, institutional frameworks, public sector initiatives, and contributions from non-state actors in building responsible AI ecosystems.
Nigeria’s latest performance builds on a series of strong international recognitions in the field of Artificial Intelligence and digital transformation. Earlier this year, the country climbed 31 places in the Oxford Insights Government AI Readiness Index, moving from 103rd to 72nd globally, reflecting significant progress in policy capacity and AI adoption readiness.
The country’s efforts in AI governance and innovation have also received increasing international recognition, with Dr Bosun Tijani being acknowledged by TIME Magazine for his contributions to advancing responsible AI and digital transformation on the African continent.
Nigeria’s latest GIRAI ranking and recognition as a global Bright Spot reinforce the country’s emergence as one of the leading destinations for responsible AI development and governance in Africa.
As the Federal Government continues to implement policies and initiatives that strengthen digital infrastructure, build world-class talent, deepen AI adoption, and foster innovation, Nigeria is demonstrating that emerging technologies can be harnessed in ways that are ethical, inclusive, and capable of driving sustainable economic growth.
