Bosun Tijani makes TIME’s #TIME100AI List, puts Nigeria on the global stage

By Chioma Obinagwam

Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, has been named on TIME’s #TIME100AI list for 2025, a recognition that highlights Nigeria’s rising influence in the global AI landscape.

Confiance News gathered from the official X handle of Tijani on Friday.

Under Tijani’s leadership, Nigeria is driving transformative AI initiatives, reflecting the collective efforts of innovators and partners committed to leveraging AI for societal progress.

Reacting, he said: “I’m honored by TIME’s #TIME100AI recognition, which reflects Nigeria’s growing role in shaping the global future of AI.”

Over the past two years, Tijani has spearheaded Nigeria’s AI journey with remarkable impact. The National AI Strategy (NAIS), co-developed with over 120 Nigerian experts, has set a strong foundation for the responsible use and advancement of AI. Tijani’s vision has fueled research and demonstration projects showcasing AI’s practical applications in critical sectors like healthcare, agriculture, education, and financial inclusion.

With support from global partners such as Google and the Gates Foundation, Tijani’s ministry is empowering Nigerian innovators by providing resources, mentorship, and platforms to scale AI solutions, transforming ideas into tangible impact. To ensure long-term sustainability, Tijani launched the AI Collective, a dynamic community of AI researchers and practitioners supported by Luminate. Additionally, the AI Trust, a body of national leaders, is dedicated to securing sustained investment in AI, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to its growth.

Tijani said: ‘“The AI Collective and AI Trust are critical to ensuring Nigeria’s leadership in sustainable AI growth.”

Confiance News gathered that this TIME recognition underscores Tijani’s leadership in positioning Nigeria as a global leader in ethical and inclusive AI deployment. His commitment aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy, with AI as a key driver of innovation and productivity.