While much of the world views Artificial Intelligence (AI) with caution, Nigerians are embracing it as a “digital sidekick” for economic empowerment.
Data released by Google made available to Business Remarks reveals that 80% of Nigerians are leveraging AI tools to explore new business ventures or career changes, (nearly double the global average of 42%), a massive shift toward tech-driven self-employment and professional growth across the country.
The new report from Google and Ipsos shows that Nigerians are not just embracing Artificial Intelligence (AI) – they are leading the charge globally. The study, “Our Life with AI: Helpfulness in the hands of more people,” reveals that Nigerians are using AI tools for everything from education to entrepreneurship at a remarkable rate, showing immense optimism for the technology’s future.
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The survey shows a massive 88% of Nigerian adults have used an AI chatbot, a huge 18-point jump from 2024. This places Nigeria well ahead of the global average of 62%.
“It’s inspiring to see how Nigerians are creatively and purposefully using AI to unlock new opportunities for learning, growth, and economic empowerment,” says Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, Communications & Public Affairs Manager for Google in West Africa. “This report doesn’t just show high adoption rates; it tells the story of a nation that is actively shaping its future with technology, using AI as a tool to accelerate progress and achieve its ambitions. We’re committed to ensuring that AI remains a helpful and accessible tool for everyone.”
Key findings for Nigeria include:
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AI is the Ultimate Sidekick for Learning and Work
While the top use for AI globally has shifted to learning, Nigerians are taking it a step further, using AI as a powerful tool for personal and professional development.
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Learning on Steroids: A staggering 93% of Nigerians use AI to learn or understand complex topics, compared to 74% globally.
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Your New Work Bestie: 91% use AI to assist them with their work.
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The Entrepreneur’s Edge: 80% of Nigerians are using AI to explore a new business or career change—nearly double the global average of 42%.
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A+ for AI in Education
Nigerians have overwhelmingly positive feelings about AI’s role in the classroom and beyond, seeing it as a game-changer for education.
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91% feel AI is having a positive impact on how we learn and access information (compared to ~65% globally).
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95% believe university students and educators are likely to benefit from AI.
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Nigerians Are Excited for an AI Future
Compared to the rest of the world, Nigerians are significantly more optimistic about the potential of AI.
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80% of Nigerians are more excited about the possibilities of AI, versus just 20% who are more concerned. Globally, the split is much closer (53% excited / 46% concerned).
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This excitement rises to 90% among Nigerians who use AI “a lot” in their daily lives.
