Nigeria-Korea AI Centre launched at DBI to accelerate digital transformation and empower youth

State-of-the-art facility inside Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) funded by Korea targets AI, big data training; aligns with Tinubu’s $1 trillion GDP roadmap.

By  Osasómé C.O and  Nana Theresa Timothy

The Nigerian government has inaugurated the Nigeria-Korea Information Access Centre (IAC) at the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) in Abuja. Funded by the Korean government through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), IAC marks a significant milestone in strengthening Nigeria’s commitment to digital skills empowerment and innovation among its youth.

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The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, commended the initiative at the launch. He emphasised the transformative power of digital technologies in driving economic growth and enhancing government service delivery.

“Investing in digital infrastructure and empowering our youth with the necessary ICT skills are key to bridging the digital divide. With the Nigeria-Korea IAC, we are taking a giant leap towards realizing President Bola Tinubu’s vision of a $1 trillion economy. This Centre will serve as a hub for Artificial Intelligence, big data, and emerging technologies, fostering innovation and opening up new opportunities for our citizens,” said Tijani.

The IAC and its goals

• Bridging the Digital Divide: Providing free access to advanced tech resources for underserved communities.
• AI & Big Data Training: Empowering 50,000+ youths annually with future-proof digital skills.
• Economic Growth: Supporting President Bola Tinubu’s ambition to grow Nigeria’s GDP to $1 trillion by 2033.

The centre is designed to provide cutting-edge digital training, research, and innovation opportunities. Equipped with state-of-the-art AI development labs, digital training rooms, an e-resource library, and mobile ICT facilities, the Centre aims to serve as a catalyst for change. It will support initiatives such as the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program and align with the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) as well as President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

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DBI’s President and CEO, Mr. David Daser, highlighted the centre’s pivotal role in fostering a culture of innovation and skills development across Nigeria.

“This Centre is a bridge to opportunity. It will empower students, entrepreneurs, and professionals with world-class digital skills, ensuring that Nigeria remains at the forefront of the global digital economy.”

Facility Highlights

The KNIAC features:

• AI Development Labs: Hands-on training in machine learning and data analytics.
• E-Resource Library: Access to global research databases and multimedia tools.
• Mobile IAC Units: Deploying tech training to rural areas via portable hubs.
• Digital Training Rooms: Certified courses in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and IoT.

The event also saw the participation of key stakeholders including the National Commissioner/CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, Dr. Vincent Olatunji; Professor Ibrahim Adeyanju, Managing Director/CEO of Galaxy Backbone Limited; and Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission. The Republic of Korea’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Kim Pan Kyu, also expressed strong support for the initiative, noting that Korea’s ongoing development assistance, including projects through the KOICA, underscores a shared commitment to digital transformation and educational empowerment.

“Korea has committed $23 million in Official Development Assistance (ODA) to Nigeria’s digital sector since 2020. IAC reflects our shared vision to transform Nigeria’s tech potential into reality, mirroring Korea’s own digital revolution.”

The Nigeria-Korea IAC is expected to leverage international best practices and foster multi-sectoral collaboration. The Centre will provide the digital skills needed for a more inclusive and sustainable future for thousands of young Nigerians.

“Nigeria’s path to a $1 trillion economy hinges on digital innovation. IAC is not just a center—it’s a catalyst for youth-driven growth. By mastering AI, our young population will dominate global tech markets, attract investment, and reshape industries,”  said Tijani.

IAC is new window for hope

• Youth Demographics: 70% of Nigeria’s 220 million population is under 30, yet only 12% possess advanced digital skills (World Bank).
• Global AI Race: AI could contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030 (PwC); Nigeria aims to capture 5% of Africa’s share.
• KOICA’s Commitment: $13millionfore-governmentsystems(2020–2026)and$10 million for multimedia education in schools (2021–2024).

David expressed optimism that the new facility will provide a fresh vista for growth.

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“This hub bridges the gap between talent and opportunity. Through partnerships with KOICA and alignment with Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy, we’re creating a pipeline for high-value jobs in AI, fintech, and smart agriculture.”

Policy Alignment

KNIAC directly supports:

• Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda: Prioritizing tech-driven job creation and youth empowerment.
• 3MTT Initiative: Training 3 million Nigerian tech talents by 2025.
• National Digital Economy Policy (NDEPS): Boosting digital literacy to 70% by 2030.