Abuja, Nigeria (Running Africa) — Nigeria has emerged as Africa’s highest-ranked country in the 2026 Global Index on Responsible AI (GIRAI), climbing 42 places to rank 38th globally in recognition of its progress in artificial intelligence governance, digital innovation and AI policy development.
The Global Index on Responsible AI, which assessed 135 countries, evaluates how effectively nations develop, govern and deploy artificial intelligence across key areas including ethics, inclusion, digital skills, public trust, accountability and the delivery of public services.
Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, said the ranking reflects the country’s commitment to building an AI ecosystem that encourages technological innovation while ensuring responsible governance and public accountability.
The report also recognized Nigeria as a global “Bright Spot” for its efforts to expand AI literacy and digital skills through initiatives such as the National AI Strategy (NAIS) and the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program.
According to the report, Nigeria is among a growing group of countries helping shape the future of responsible AI governance beyond the world’s traditional technology hubs, highlighting Africa’s increasing role in the global digital economy.
Across the continent, governments are accelerating investments in artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure and workforce development as they seek to harness emerging technologies to drive economic growth, improve public services and strengthen innovation ecosystems.
Despite this progress, the report notes that many developing countries continue to face challenges in implementing effective AI governance frameworks, citing resource constraints, regulatory capacity and digital infrastructure as key obstacles.
Nigerian officials say sustained investment in broadband connectivity, digital talent, AI research and governance frameworks will be essential to maintaining the country’s leadership position and ensuring artificial intelligence contributes to inclusive economic growth and long-term national development.
The latest ranking reinforces Nigeria’s growing influence in Africa’s technology sector as the country positions itself as a regional leader in responsible AI innovation and digital transformation.
