Google’s latest Search trends show a significant increase in searches related to Artificial Intelligence globally, with Nigeria experiencing a 130% surge in interest in 2024.
According to Mr. Olumide Balogun, Google’s Director for West Africa, AI searches in Nigeria doubled by 130% from January to July 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.
Balogun emphasized that the interest in AI search queries has hit a peak globally and specifically in Nigeria.
He also mentioned that Nigeria ranks sixth in AI search interest in Africa and 25th worldwide.
In Balogun’s words, “Nigerians are keen on exploring AI and its practical applications.”
Searches on Google in Nigeria for AI and cybersecurity have risen by 80%, AI in healthcare by over 140%, and AI in medicine by 50% among other notable increases.
AI presents a wide range of opportunities for individuals, sparking innovation, social progress, and economic development.
Balogun highlighted the surge in searches for AI courses by 50%, AI in business by 110%, and AI-related jobs by an impressive 640%.
As part of Google’s commitment to leveraging AI for societal good, free AI training programs are offered through the Hustle Academy aimed at African entrepreneurs, focusing on AI’s practical business applications.
Since its establishment in 2022, the Hustle Academy has benefitted over 10,000 businesses.
Additionally, Google supports promising AI-focused startups in Africa through its Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program.
Google is utilizing AI to tackle major societal issues, such as collaborating with partners in Ghana to enhance locust outbreak detection and control, and in Kenya to enhance maternal health services with organizations like Jacaranda Health.
NAN.