Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has secured a place on the prestigious 2025 TIME100 AI list, joining global technology giants such as Elon Musk, Sam Altman, and Mark Zuckerberg.

The recognition marks a milestone not just for Tijani’s personal journey but for Nigeria’s fast-growing digital and innovation ecosystem. It highlights the country’s emergence as a serious player in shaping the global conversation on artificial intelligence and digital transformation.

At the heart of Tijani’s recognition is the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program, a flagship initiative he has championed since assuming office. 

The program aims to equip three million Nigerians with in-demand digital skills by 2027, covering areas such as AI, cybersecurity, software development, and data science.

So far, nearly 300,000 young Nigerians have benefitted from the program through online learning and in-person training across 220 dedicated centers. 

The initiative goes beyond training by connecting graduates with opportunities, thanks to collaborations with organizations like the United Nations-European Union and local companies such as Awarri, which provide internships and employment placements.

Strategic partnerships have been crucial to the program’s growth. With support from Microsoft Nigeria, MTN Nigeria, Airtel Africa Foundation, and the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), the 3MTT has expanded into entrepreneurship support, funding, and mentorship, helping fellows turn skills into scalable businesses.

Tijani’s vision for Nigeria’s digital future extends beyond training. He has spearheaded the National AI Strategy, developed with contributions from over 150 local experts. 

The policy promotes responsible AI development tailored to Nigerian realities, including building culturally relevant datasets and infrastructure. “There’s an opportunity to strengthen the quality of AI by helping to digitize our own reality,” TIME quoted Tijani as saying, underscoring his focus on homegrown innovation.

Another cornerstone of his agenda is connectivity. The Ministry is overseeing the rollout of 90,000 kilometers of fiber-optic cables, supported by the World Bank and other partners, to expand digital access across the country and bridge the infrastructure gap.

The global recognition by TIME adds to Tijani’s growing list of international achievements. 

Earlier this year, he was elected Vice Chair of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council for 2025 Nigeria’s first leadership position on the council in nearly five decades. 

His election, endorsed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, comes at a pivotal moment when nations are shaping policies to ensure inclusivity in the digital age.

By standing alongside names like Musk, Altman, and Zuckerberg, Tijani has not only raised Nigeria’s profile on the world stage but also reinforced the country’s ambition to become a hub for digital talent and innovation.