Matching Nigeria's Public Sector Challenges with Proven Nigerian AI Solutions
The Scaling AI Development (SAID) Challenge is a structured matching mechanism connecting government institutions with operationally piloted Nigerian AI start-ups to drive public sector efficiency.
What exactly is
the SAID Challenge?
SAID identifies real, pressing problems articulated by Nigerian government MDAs, then matches them with Nigerian AI start-ups that have already built and piloted working solutions.
This structured initiative ensures that AI deployment in government is based on proven capability and strategic alignment.
Real Government Challenges
Pressing problems sourced directly from Nigerian MDAs.
Proven AI Solutions
Piloted and working tech built by Nigerian start-ups.
Structured Matching
Connecting verified problems with capable innovators.
Real-World Deployment
Driving efficiency and transformation in the public sector.
The Matching Process
A rigorous, multi-stage mechanism designed for institutional excellence and scalable impact.
MDAs identify specific service-delivery problems where AI solutions can create impact.
Nigerian AI start-ups with working pilots apply to be matched against these problems.
NAISH manages a structured matching, vetting and pairing process.
Matched pairs pilot solutions within government institutions with NAISH support.
Results are showcased at Demo Day with pathways toward continued deployment and investment.
Engagement Pathways
Choose the track that aligns with your organization's goals and start driving public sector innovation today.
Government (MDAs)
Bring a real service delivery problem and gain access to vetted, deployment-ready AI solutions.
AI Start-ups
If you have an operationally piloted solution, this is your structured route into government scaling.
Partners & Funders
Support an evidence-generating model for AI-driven public sector transformation in Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before registering your interest or submitting an application.
The Scaling AI Development (SAID) Challenge is a structured initiative run by Nigeria AI Scaling Hub (NAISH) at Lagos Business School. It connects Nigerian government ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) with proven Nigerian AI start-ups to solve real, documented public sector challenges.
Still have questions? Reach out to our team
Join the Next Wave of Public Service Transformation
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