A new study by Google and Ipsos, titled Our Life with AI: Helpfulness in the Hands of More People, shows that 88% of Nigerian adults have used an AI chatbot, marking an 18-point rise from 2024 and far exceeding the global average of 62%.

The findings illustrate how Nigerians are moving beyond casual experimentation to actively using AI tools in daily life, from schools and offices to small businesses, positioning Nigeria as one of the fastest adopters of AI globally.

AI Use in Nigeria Focused on Learning, Work, and Entrepreneurship

The report highlights that Nigerians are leveraging AI with purpose, using it to solve practical problems:

• Learning: 93% of Nigerians use AI to understand complex topics, compared with 74% globally, showing AI is now a core educational tool.
• Work: 91% incorporate AI into professional tasks like research, planning, and problem-solving, making it a productivity partner rather than a threat.
• Entrepreneurship: 80% use AI to explore business ideas or career changes, nearly double the global average of 42%, reflecting Nigeria’s thriving culture of self-employment amplified by accessible AI solutions.

Nigerians Show Strong Optimism Toward AI

Sentiment toward AI in Nigeria is overwhelmingly positive:

• 80% are excited about AI’s potential, while only 20% express concern.
• Frequent AI users report 90% excitement.
• 91% believe AI improves learning, and 95% expect benefits for university students and educators.

A young, digitally savvy population and a history of rapid tech adoption have helped AI integrate seamlessly into everyday life, from study tools to business planning.

Challenges: Digital Literacy and Responsible Use

Despite high adoption, the report emphasises key challenges:

• Digital literacy: Users must understand AI’s capabilities and limitations.
• Data privacy: Increased AI use requires stronger safeguards.
• Misinformation: Awareness of AI-generated content is critical to prevent misuse.

Policymakers, educators, and technology providers will need to match the pace of adoption with guidance and safeguards.

Nigeria’s Growing Influence in Global AI

The report positions Nigeria as a leading AI market, not a peripheral one. With millions relying on AI for education, work, and entrepreneurship, the country is setting an example for practical, impactful AI adoption in emerging markets.