Nigeria is set to launch its first artificial intelligence-focused university in Epe, Lagos, a significant milestone in the Africa’s tech landscape.
The university, named Wini University, aims to equip Nigerian youths with cutting-edge AI skills, positioning the country as a major player in the global AI market, projected to reach $4.6 trillion by 2040.
The Chairman of WiniGroup Nigeria, Olukayode Akano, revealed that the institution was inspired by the world’s first Artificial Intelligence university, established in Qatar, which attracted top scholars and innovators from countries like China, India, the United States, and Europe. He said,
“The proposed university will empower young Nigerians to create groundbreaking solutions that will redefine industries and economies. By equipping students with cutting-edge knowledge in technologies like blockchain, cloud computing, generative AI, OpenAI, data science, and machine learning, it positions them for leadership in the rapidly evolving global AI market.”
According to him, the university’s impact will extend beyond education, transforming Epe’s economy by creating jobs, attracting global investments, and fostering innovations like drones, AI-driven climate solutions, and humanoid robots. He said,
“This project is not just about academics; it is a bold step toward transforming Lagos into the Silicon Valley of Africa, a hub where innovation and technology converge to solve real-world problems.”
He also outlined that the project being initiated in 2016 has goals to create a thriving community of academics and students passionate about advancing AI and quantum computing in Africa and beyond. He said,
“The Nigerian journey began in 2016, when a group of visionaries from Boston and Nigeria came together with a shared dream. After years of planning, securing expressions of interest from the National University Commission, NUC, and rallying support, the vision for Wini University is now taking shape.
“In 2013, President Vladimir Putin of Russia declared that the nation leading in Artificial Intelligence would dominate as the next global superpower.
“Over a decade later, this prophecy continues to unfold as AI becomes the axis on which industries and human advancement revolve.”
Olukayode further explained that the institution plans to establish a technology hub in Lagos, combining academic research with practical innovation and to achieve this, the University will need to secure qualified teachers, consistent funding, and ensure inclusivity for students from diverse backgrounds.
Additionally, local leaders in Epe have donated land to support this historic project as the university plans to attract faculty from China, India, the United States, and Europe, and establish partnerships with global tech companies.
As AI continues to influence global economic and technological advancement, Wini University is poised to play a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s tech future and the initiative could expand Africa’s AI talent pool and create new opportunities for technological partnerships between Nigerian and international companies.
