The 2026 NITDA National AI Development Obstacle (NAIC) is now open for applications from Nigerian innovators, entrepreneurs, scientists, and groups developing practical Artificial Intelligence services.
The obstacle, arranged by the National Infotech Advancement Firm (NITDA) through the National Centre for Expert System and Robotics (NCAIR), is designed to support Nigerian innovators constructing AI solutions utilizing N-ATLAS, Nigeria’s multilingual AI and language technology platform.
Picked individuals will have access to technical support, mentorship, computing resources, networking chances, and other chances to establish and showcase their AI developments.
About the NITDA National AI Innovation Obstacle
The National AI Innovation Difficulty concentrates on encouraging the advancement of practical AI options that can address difficulties in Nigeria and across various sectors.
Applicants are expected to establish an operating technical service incorporated with N-ATLAS, with challenge locations including designer tools, voice-first applications, and sector-specific AI solutions.
N-ATLAS is created to support Nigerian languages and Nigerian-accented English, consisting of Yoruba, Hausa, and Igbo, making it relevant to the advancement of in your area focused AI technologies.
NITDA National AI Innovation Challenge Benefits
Applicants and shortlisted groups may get access to:
- Technical centers and workplace hours
- N-ATLAS onboarding and technical resources
- University roadshows and community briefings
- N-ATLAS API credentials
- Computing credits
- Technical mentorship
- Assistance to strengthen their AI options
- Invitation to the Nigeria AI Innovators Top
- Addition in the NITDA AI talent computer registry
- Possible consideration for federal government AI pilot chances
- Connecting with AI innovators and environment stakeholders
Winners might also receive additional opportunities, including research collaborations, technical support, recognition, incubation assistance, investor introductions, and possible federal government procurement path evaluation.
Eligibility for the NITDA National AI Innovation Difficulty
The challenge is open to Nigerian residents and eligible Nigerian entities.
Development & Enterprise Category
Private applicants need to:
- Be a Nigerian person.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Submit an initial AI innovation.
- Have an operating technical artefact integrated with N-ATLAS.
Business using must be signed up with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
Diaspora groups are likewise eligible, provided that a minimum of 50% of their employee are based in Nigeria.
Academic Community & Research Category
Applicants in the academic community and research category must have a group lead who is registered or utilized by a recognized Nigerian university or research organization.
An institutional recommendation letter signed by the appropriate Head of Department or equivalent authority is likewise required.
Application Deadline
The deadline to request the 2026 NITDA National AI Development Difficulty is October 12, 2026.
Applications opened on September 22, 2026, and applicants are anticipated to complete their builds and submissions before the deadline.
How to Use
Interested Nigerian innovators and research study groups can use online through the main NITDA/NCAIR application portal.