Nigeria has achieved a major milestone in artificial intelligence (AI) governance, emerging as the highest-ranked African country in the 2026 Global Index on Responsible AI (GIRAI). The country climbed an impressive 42 places to rank 38th globally out of 135 countries, reflecting significant progress in building a responsible and inclusive AI ecosystem.
The Global Index on Responsible AI, published by the Global Center on AI Governance, evaluates how countries are developing the policies, institutions, and safeguards needed to ensure AI technologies are designed and deployed ethically and responsibly. The assessment measures performance across five key pillars: inclusion and diversity, ethics and sustainability, labour and skills, trust and safety, and AI use in public services.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, described the achievement as a validation of Nigeria’s commitment to shaping the future of AI responsibly. He noted that the country’s progress demonstrates deliberate investments in AI governance, digital talent development, and policies that promote innovation while safeguarding public trust.
Nigeria’s improved ranking follows a series of initiatives by the Federal Government, including the development of a National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, investments in digital public infrastructure, and stronger international collaborations on emerging technologies. These efforts are aimed at positioning the country as a continental leader in AI innovation while ensuring that technological advancement remains ethical, inclusive, and aligned with national development goals.
Industry stakeholders believe the recognition will enhance Nigeria’s reputation as an attractive destination for AI investment, research, and innovation. It is also expected to strengthen investor confidence, encourage local AI startups, and support the country’s ambition of becoming a leading digital economy in Africa.
