Nigeria Launches Atlas Network to Lead Africa's Homegrown AI Push

Nigeria has launched a continent-wide artificial intelligence initiative called the Atlas Network, designed to develop AI systems rooted in African languages, cultures and indigenous knowledge. Communications Minister Bosun Tijani announced the initiative on Thursday during the 7th Ordinary Session of the Conference of Plenipotentiaries of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU), held in Abuja.

What the Atlas Network Will Do

The Atlas Network will function as a shared platform connecting African governments, universities, researchers, technology companies and other stakeholders to build AI tools that address challenges unique to the continent. The goal is to reduce dependence on technologies developed elsewhere.

Tijani told delegates that artificial intelligence represents one of the most significant opportunities for Africa's economic growth, but only if the continent takes ownership of how those technologies are built.

He pointed to a striking gap: while Africa accounts for a large portion of the world's languages, fewer than two per cent of those languages are currently supported by modern AI systems, according to NAN reports.

The Atlas Network will coordinate efforts to develop large language models trained specifically on African languages, cultures and knowledge systems. Tijani said the aim is to produce AI solutions that are 'by Africa and for Africa.'

Call for Policy Alignment and Investment

Tijani linked the Atlas initiative to a broader push to grow Africa's share of the global digital economy. He cited the continent's young population, expanding technology sector and growing investment in digital infrastructure as assets that can support AI development at scale.

He also called on African nations to align their digital policies ahead of the 2026 International Telecommunication Union (ITU) conference, where key decisions on telecommunications and digital governance will be made globally. Presenting a single, coordinated African position at such forums, he argued, would give the continent greater influence over the future direction of technology policy, BusinessDay reports.

The minister noted that the ATU now counts 52 member states, a sign of deepening regional cooperation in telecommunications and digital development. He urged more countries to join the Atlas Network, saying broader participation would help ensure AI systems genuinely reflect the continent's diversity.

Tijani also called for increased investment in broadband connectivity, digital skills and secure infrastructure, describing these as essential foundations for scaling AI development across Africa.

What This Means for Nigeria and the Naira

For Nigerian businesses and consumers, the Atlas Network signals a strategic push to reduce reliance on foreign AI platforms. If successful, locally built AI tools could lower costs for tech firms, create jobs in the digital sector, and strengthen the naira by expanding the country's export of technology services.