Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer something reserved for labs in Silicon Valley or elite universities in Europe. From Lagos to Makurdi, Nigerian students are waking up to the opportunities AI presents—and organizations like the Centre for Journalism Innovation & Development (CJID) are making it real. In 2025, CJID launched the AI Campus Network, offering 10,000 learning slots to students across tertiary institutions in Nigeria. If you’re wondering how to get in, what you’ll learn, and what makes this initiative different, this guide is for you.
What is CJID’s AI Campus Network?
The AI Campus Network is a free, nationwide initiative launched by CJID to equip Nigerian students with foundational and applicable knowledge in artificial intelligence. Whether you’re a tech-savvy engineering student or a history major with zero coding experience, this program was designed to be inclusive, practical, and deeply rooted in African realities.
What sets this apart from other free courses online? Three things:
Local context – The curriculum reflects how AI impacts real issues in Africa, from fake news to healthcare access.
Campus-based peer learning – You’re not learning in isolation. You’ll join a cohort in your school or region and work together.
Post-training support – Certification, mentorship, access to networks, and even exposure to job opportunities are all part of the deal.
The program is funded and organized by the Centre for Journalism Innovation & Development (CJID) in partnership with key academic institutions, NGOs, and development partners across Africa.
What Are the AI Campus 10k Slots?
The phrase “AI Campus 10k slots” refers to the 10,000 student positions available in this free training cycle. These slots are distributed across public and private universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education in Nigeria.
Every year, CJID opens the portal and invites applications from students interested in AI. It’s a merit-based selection, and once you’re accepted into the program, you’re enrolled in a multi-week curriculum built around:
- AI fundamentals
- Digital tools
- Responsible AI use
- Community projects
So when you see “AI Campus 10k slots,” think: 10,000 doors opening into the world of artificial intelligence for Nigerian students—for free.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
This program is not just for Computer Science students. CJID designed the AI Campus Network to be cross-disciplinary because AI is transforming every field—from agriculture to law.
You are eligible if:
- You are a current student in any Nigerian tertiary institution (university, polytechnic, COE).
- You are undergoing NYSC and can demonstrate availability for the duration of the training.
- You are a recent graduate looking to transition into tech (some slots are available for you under special consideration).
- You can commit at least 4–6 hours weekly to online classes, group discussions, and assignments.
- You have basic digital literacy (can use Google tools, email, WhatsApp, and Zoom).
No programming experience? No problem. The program starts with the basics and builds up gradually.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Visit the Application Portal
Go to CJID’s official website or follow their verified social media pages. During an open call, you’ll see a clear application link to the AI Campus Network form.
Step 2: Fill Out Your Details
You’ll be required to enter:
– Full name
– Institution name
– Department and level/year
– Phone number and email address
– State of residence
Double-check your contact details—this is how you’ll get feedback on your application.
Step 3: Write a Motivation Statement
This is the most important part. You’ll be asked something like:
“Why do you want to participate in the AI Campus Network?”
Keep it under 200–250 words, but make it meaningful. More tips on this later.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
In some cases, you may be asked to upload:
– Your student ID or proof of enrollment
– NYSC call-up letter (if applicable)
– Passport photograph (clearly scanned)
If the form doesn’t ask for uploads, skip this.
Step 5: Submit and Wait
Once you submit, you’ll get a confirmation message or email. Shortlisted candidates are usually contacted within 2–3 weeks.
What to Expect If You’re Selected
Being selected for the AI Campus Network is not just about getting free training. It’s a community experience. Once admitted, here’s what to expect:
Virtual Onboarding
You’ll receive access to a learning dashboard and WhatsApp or Telegram group for your cohort. The onboarding session includes familiarization with the training timeline, tools, and instructors.
Modular Courses
The training is delivered in weekly modules over several weeks. Topics include:
- Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
- AI Ethics and Responsible Use
- AI Tools for Journalism, Research, and Business
- Data Literacy and Digital Skills
- AI in Climate, Health, and Governance
Team Projects and Local Challenges
Students form small groups to solve practical problems using what they’ve learned. For example, a team might work on detecting fake news or improving local health data using AI tools.
Mentorship Sessions
Participants get access to mentors from CJID and partner organizations, including AI engineers, data analysts, journalists, and civic tech experts.
Certification
After completing the training and submitting your final project, you receive a certificate recognized by CJID and its academic partners.
Tips for Writing a Strong Application
Many students apply for the AI Campus 10k slots. To increase your chances, here are some tested tips:
- Be Specific: Instead of saying “I want to learn AI,” explain how you plan to use the knowledge in your field or community.
- Be Honest: You don’t need to pretend to be an expert. Mention your curiosity, past learning struggles, and eagerness to learn.
- Mention Local Impact: Reviewers love to see how students plan to apply AI to solve Nigerian or African problems.
- Follow Instructions: If the application says “maximum 250 words,” don’t write 500. Show you can follow directions.
Here’s a sample idea for your motivation statement:
“As a 300-level Geography student at UniBen, I’ve seen how poor climate data affects flood control in Benin City. I want to learn how AI tools can help communities prepare better and share data with local authorities. I have no programming background, but I’m willing to put in the time. I believe this AI Campus program will give me the skills and community I need to grow.”
Why the AI Campus Network Matters for Nigeria
Artificial Intelligence is already changing the world. In Nigeria, it’s helping identify malaria from images, detect fake news, and even improve customer service in banks. But to truly benefit, we need homegrown talent—students who understand both the technology and our unique local context.
That’s what the AI Campus Network is doing. It’s not just a training—it’s a movement. One that’s:
- Decentralizing tech education
- Bridging the gap between disciplines
- Creating Africa-centered AI solutions
- Building a network of young innovators, regardless of background
What Comes After the Program?
CJID doesn’t stop at the certificate. Alumni of the AI Campus Network often go on to:
- Apply for fellowships and internships
- Join hackathons, research projects, or journalism fellowships
- Lead AI clubs or organize tech-for-good events on their campuses
- Get job opportunities through the CJID network
There’s also a growing alumni group that stays connected and shares opportunities, grants, and collaborations beyond graduation.
Final Thoughts: Your Next Move
If you’ve been curious about AI but didn’t know where to start, the AI Campus 10k slots are your open door. You don’t need to be a coding expert or come from a tech-savvy family. What you need is curiosity, commitment, and courage.
Watch for the next application window. Prepare your documents, polish your motivation statement, and most importantly—believe that you belong in tech. Nigeria’s AI future needs all of us.
