Call for Applications: Nigerian AI Collective 2025 – AI for Civil Society Workshop

Illustrative Image: Call for Applications: Nigerian AI Collective 2025 – AI for Civil Society Workshop
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Deadline for Applications: August 1, 2025

The Nigerian AI Collective, in collaboration with the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) and with support from Luminate, is excited to announce the 2025 AI for Civil Society Workshop—a transformative six-month programme designed to deepen the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in civic advocacy, digital rights, and public accountability in Nigeria.

This initiative invites registered civil society organisations (CSOs), non-profits, and advocacy groups from across Nigeria to apply for a capacity-building programme aimed at enhancing their understanding, adoption, and strategic use of AI technologies to advance social good and promote ethical governance.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is ideal for CSOs that meet the following criteria:

• Demonstrated community engagement or track record in advocacy, digital innovation, or public service delivery.

• Organisations actively working in tech, governance, civic participation, or digital rights, particularly those engaging with or exploring the implications of AI systems.

• Groups seeking to incorporate AI in addressing societal challenges, improving transparency, or amplifying their policy influence.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered, organisations must:

• Be legally registered in Nigeria with valid documentation (e.g., CAC certificate).

• Currently be implementing or planning AI-based initiatives such as policy advocacy around AI, inclusive tech development, algorithmic fairness, or data governance.

• Exhibit a clear commitment to ethical AI integration, inclusive technology use, and community impact.

• Show intent to scale their internal capacity to engage with AI systems or influence national/regional AI governance frameworks.

Programme Highlights and Benefits

Successful applicants will participate in a robust, collaborative learning journey and receive:

• Specialised Training in:

  • AI fundamentals and current developments in machine learning

  • Data governance and ethical considerations

  • Algorithmic transparency and accountability mechanisms

• Strategic Advocacy Support to:

  • Design and execute campaigns that align AI technologies with social justice goals

  • Integrate AI into civic programmes or digital transformation efforts

• Peer Learning and Collaboration:

  • Participate in knowledge exchange sessions with media professionals, AI researchers, technologists, and policy experts.

  • Network with a pan-African coalition of civil society actors building equitable AI frameworks.

• Financial Assistance:

  • Limited grants for CSOs to pilot AI advocacy projects, deploy AI tools for public service enhancement, or strengthen ongoing initiatives aligned with responsible and inclusive AI practices.

How to Apply

Interested organisations should prepare and submit the following:

1. Cover Letter (max 1 page):
   Introduce your organisation, state your interest in AI capacity-building, and outline what you hope to achieve through participation in the workshop.

2. Concept Note (max 1 page):
   Propose an AI-related intervention or advocacy initiative your organisation intends to develop or implement during the six-month programme. The concept should reflect innovation, relevance to your mission, and potential social impact.

3. Portfolio of Past Work:
   Include links or documentation highlighting relevant past or ongoing projects related to technology, policy advocacy, or civic engagement.

4. Proof of Legal Registration:
   Upload your CAC certificate or an equivalent legal registration document.

Selection Process and Notification

Applications will be reviewed based on relevance, innovation, potential for impact, and alignment with the programme’s goals. Only shortlisted organisations will be contacted. If you do not receive a response within one week of the application deadline, please consider your application unsuccessful. Due to the high volume of submissions, feedback to individual applicants may not be possible.

Why This Matters

As AI becomes increasingly central to governance, public service, and digital life, it is critical that civil society organisations are equipped with the tools, knowledge, and networks to ensure AI technologies serve public interest. This programme aims to bridge the AI capacity gap in the civic sector, promoting inclusive digital futures where technology upholds human rights, democratic values, and accountability.

For More Information

Visit the official website of the Nigerian AI Collective 2025 AI for Civil Society Workshop