Google’s tools contributed $1.8bn to Nigeria’s economy in 2023, with digital skills and AI expected to drive further growth by 2030, a report reveals.

[dropcap]G[/dropcap]oogle’s tools and services added $1.8bn to Nigeria’s economy in 2023, enhancing digital skills, productivity, and the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.

A new report by consultancy Public First revealed that Google’s services contributed an estimated $1.8bn to Nigeria’s economy in 2023.

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The Nigeria Digital Opportunity report, presented in Lagos, highlighted how Google’s tools, including Google Search, Ads, Google Play, YouTube, and Google Cloud, significantly boosted the productivity of Nigerian businesses, content creators, and workers.

Google also noted the impact of its digital skills programmes, with over 1.5 million young Nigerians acquiring new skills in 2023.

Olumide Balogun, Google’s Director for West Africa, expressed excitement about the positive effects of digital technology on Nigeria’s economy.

He stressed the importance of continued investments in digital infrastructure and skills to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s thriving digital economy.

The report also projected that artificial intelligence (AI) could add $15bn to Nigeria’s economy by 2030, positioning Google as a key player in this growth.

Google’s 2022 Equiano fibre-optic cable landing in Nigeria is expected to increase internet penetration by 7% by 2025, improving access and connectivity.

To harness this potential, the report recommends Nigerian policymakers focus on strengthening digital infrastructure, adopting cloud-first strategies, and investing in STEM education to prepare the workforce for future opportunities.

Amy Price, Head of Technology Policy at Public First, emphasised Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa’s digital space, noting that AI will play a crucial role in shaping its future economy.