Elon Musk, Sam Altman, and Nigeria's Bosun Tijani chosen for AI-focused TIME100 list
In a significant milestone for Nigeria's digital landscape, Bosun Tijani, the country's Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has been recognised on the 2025 TIME100 AI list. This international recognition is a testament to Tijani's leadership in digital innovation.
Tijani's leadership has been instrumental in the development and championing of Nigeria's National AI Strategy. This strategy, which has input from over 150 domestic experts, aims to foster responsible AI development in the country.
One of Tijani's significant initiatives under his leadership is the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program. This program equips young Nigerians with the skills needed for high-demand digital careers, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, data science, and software development. So far, nearly 300,000 Nigerians have been trained through the 3MTT program.
The 3MTT program also aims to equip 3 million Nigerians with technical skills by 2027. Training is provided through a mix of online platforms and 220 in-person learning centers. Graduates of the program are supported in securing jobs through partnerships with organisations like the United Nations-European Union and companies like Awarri.
The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, led by Tijani, collaborates with IHS Towers to implement the 3MTT Learning Community program across Nigeria's 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. This partnership also includes other ministries, parastatals, and private sector stakeholders to support technology application in various sectors.
Another notable collaboration is with the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), through which the 3MTT-DBN Annual Entrepreneurship Training Programme was launched. This programme provides fellows and digital entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and funding needed to scale their innovations and build sustainable businesses.
Tijani's leadership has also extended to the international arena, as he was elected as Vice Chair of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council for 2025. This marks the country's first leadership role in the Council in nearly 50 years.
Moreover, Tijani's election as Vice Chair of the ITU Council was confirmed following his endorsement by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This endorsement comes at a critical moment for global digital policy as countries rally to ensure that no one is left behind in the digital revolution.
The Minister is also overseeing the installation of 90,000 kilometers of fiber-optic cables, funded in collaboration with the World Bank and other development partners, to expand digital connectivity across Nigeria.
Partnerships with companies like Microsoft Nigeria, MTN Nigeria, and Airtel Africa Foundation further strengthen the 3MTT program's reach and impact.
In conclusion, Bosun Tijani's leadership in digital innovation, as evidenced by his work with the 3MTT program and his recognition on the 2025 TIME100 AI list, is paving the way for a digitally skilled and connected Nigeria.
