Nigeria has launched the Atlas Network, a scheme designed to develop artificial intelligence systems that reflect Africa's languages, cultures and local knowledge. Bosun Tijani, minister of communications, innovation and digital economy, unveiled the initiative at the 7th Ordinary Session of the Conference of Plenipotentiaries of the African Telecommunications Union in Abuja on Thursday.
The platform aims to help African nations create AI tools tailored to their specific needs rather than relying on technology built elsewhere. Tijani noted that fewer than two per cent of African languages currently have support from modern AI systems, despite the continent being home to a significant portion of the world's languages.
"Artificial intelligence represents one of the greatest opportunities for Africa's transformation," he said. The minister stressed that the continent must develop technology "by Africa and for Africa" that captures its diverse languages, cultures and knowledge systems.
The Atlas Network will unite governments, researchers, universities, technology firms and other key players to build large language models for African users. According to Tijani, this collaborative approach will boost Nigeria's push to expand Africa's role in the global digital economy.
He highlighted that Africa's expanding tech sector, youthful population and growing digital infrastructure investments position the continent to shape the future of technology. The minister underscored the importance of African countries coordinating their positions ahead of the 2026 International Telecommunication Union conference, where major decisions on telecommunications and digital governance will be made.
Tijani pointed out that the African Telecommunications Union now has 52 member states and continues deepening partnerships in technology, innovation and digital development. He stressed that scaling up internet access, building digital skills and securing digital infrastructure remain critical for Africa's technology growth.
The minister called on African nations to join the Atlas Network and contribute to shaping AI development that serves the continent's people and preserves its cultural heritage. He noted that increased global investment in AI and local technology solutions is accelerating worldwide, making African participation crucial in this emerging field.
