Nigerians Are the Highest Users of AI Chatbots in the World — Google Report 

A new Google-backed study suggests Nigerians are not waiting for the global debate on artificial intelligence to settle. They are already using it,practically and at scale.

According to the “Our Life with AI 2026” report, 88% of Nigerian adults have used an AI chatbot, up 18 percentage points from last year. That adoption rate is far above the global average of 62%, signalling how quickly AI tools have become part of everyday life in Nigeria.

AI is no longer a “new thing” in Nigeria

The report indicates Nigeria’s AI uptake has accelerated faster than in many markets. While discussions in other regions still focus heavily on risks and regulation, Nigeria’s pattern looks more utility-driven: people are using AI to solve immediate problems, learn faster, work more efficiently, and explore income opportunities.

Google says this is not casual experimentation. It reflects purposeful use,AI as a tool for progress.

Learning, work support, and entrepreneurship — all in one tool

One of the strongest findings is how Nigerians use AI across multiple areas at once.

On education and learning, 93% of Nigerian AI users say they rely on chatbots to understand or break down complex topics,well above the global average of 74%. Students use it to simplify difficult subjects, professionals use it to learn new skills, and job seekers use it for interview preparation and career moves.

On productivity at work, 91% say AI supports their work tasks,helping with writing, planning, research, and routine execution.

But the standout is entrepreneurship. 80% of Nigerians say they use AI to explore business ideas or career changes,nearly double the global average of 42%. In a country where side hustles and self-employment are common, AI is increasingly viewed as a support system for growth rather than a threat.

Education and ambition are pushing adoption

The report links Nigeria’s rapid adoption to education needs and personal ambition. It found 91% of Nigerians believe AI improves how people learn and access information, while 95% expect students and educators,especially in universities,to benefit.

That confidence appears grounded in day-to-day experience: AI offers instant explanations, personalised guidance, and flexible access, especially useful where traditional learning resources can be limited or inconsistent.

Nigeria’s optimism about AI stands out

The survey also found a notably positive attitude toward AI in Nigeria. 80% of Nigerians say they feel excited about AI’s potential, compared with 20% who feel more concerned. Among frequent users, excitement rises to 90%, suggesting that the more people use AI, the more confident they become about its value.