The Enugu State Government has unveiled plans to establish a specialised artificial intelligence institute aimed at preparing graduates for opportunities in the global digital economy. The initiative, led by Arinze Chilo-Offiah, Special Adviser on Digital Economy and MSMEs, reflects a broader push to reposition the state’s economic strategy around talent export rather than traditional industries.
Chilo-Offiah said the project is anchored on the growing importance of digital skills such as AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and software engineering, which he believes offer a stronger competitive advantage. The proposed institute is expected to operate with degree-awarding status under the National Universities Commission, potentially starting as a satellite campus of Enugu State University of Technology before evolving into a standalone institution focused on elite, high-impact training.
The institute forms part of a wider “talent city” framework that integrates education, outsourcing, and infrastructure into a single pipeline. Supporting this vision are ongoing projects including a 750-seat business process outsourcing centre and a planned 2,000-seat knowledge process outsourcing facility, designed to connect trained graduates directly to global work opportunities. The state is also repurposing an abandoned digital park originally developed by the Nigerian Communications Commission as part of the ecosystem.
Despite the ambition, the initiative faces significant hurdles, including the high cost of AI infrastructure, access to reliable power, and the need for specialised expertise. The government is therefore leaning on private sector partnerships and investment vehicles to drive execution. If successful, the project could position Enugu as a key hub for exporting digital talent, aligning with Nigeria’s broader goal of scaling technical skills for global competitiveness.