The Federal Government has named Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings, to serve on the newly established National AI Trust, signaling a significant push to accelerate artificial intelligence (AI) development across the country.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, who confirmed that Aig-Imoukhuede has accepted the appointment and will join a select group of experts charged with guiding Nigeria’s AI strategy.
In February 2025, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the creation of the National AI Trust to mobilize resources, provide oversight, and ensure that Nigeria’s AI investments align with broader economic objectives.
Until now, the identities of most members remained undisclosed. Minister Tijani—who will chair the Trust alongside the Honourable Minister of Science, Innovation, and Technology—praised Aig-Imoukhuede’s “wealth of experience and visionary leadership,” highlighting his track record in digital transformation through the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation.
“I’m pleased to share that Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede has graciously accepted to join our National AI Trust, bringing his wealth of experience and visionary leadership to this next phase of Nigeria’s AI journey,” Minister Tijani declared during a press briefing in Abuja.
He emphasised that the Trust’s primary mandate is to “future-proof” Nigeria’s AI initiatives and align them with national economic growth plans, particularly in the areas of job creation, foreign direct investment, and global competitiveness.
In justifying Aig-Imoukhuede’s selection, Minister Tijani pointed to the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation’s collaboration with government agencies on the Nigeria Web Design Standards (NWDS).
Launched in late 2024, the NWDS project seeks to standardize public sector websites for improved accessibility, security, and user experience.