AI Ecosystem and Partnerships Lead – Nigeria at Athena Infonomics (Abuja & Lagos)

Athena Infonomics is a data-driven global consultancy. We combine social science research methods and ICT tools to drive innovation in policies, processes and programs in global development. Athena Infonomics has offices in India and Washington, D.C., alongside program hubs across Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: AI Ecosystem and Partnerships Lead – Nigeria

Locations: Abuja or Lagos
Position Type: Full Time (Contract)
Start Date: 1st December 2025

Job Description

• The role will anchor the Athena Infonomics–Wadhwani AI Global (WAIG) partnership’s presence in Nigeria, working closely with Athena’s Director of AI + DPI Services (ADS) and WAIG’s Head of Growth to identify and shape strategic opportunities in the national AI ecosystem.

Key Responsibilities
Ecosystem Mapping & Intelligence:

• Map and continuously track the evolving Nigerian AI ecosystem—covering government initiatives, research institutions, private-sector innovation, and donor programs.
• Analyze policy, regulatory, and institutional frameworks shaping AI adoption in public health and education/skilling sectors.
• Identify key actors, networks, and platforms driving AI capacity-building and responsible AI discourse.

Partnership Building & Network Access:

• Cultivate relationships with national and state-level government agencies, local AI start-ups, universities, and innovation hubs.
• Facilitate introductions and partnership conversations for Athena and WAIG with relevant stakeholders.
• Represent the partnership in relevant AI, tech, and policy convenings in Nigeria.

Opportunity Identification & Concept Development:

• Identify high-potential AI use cases aligned with public sector priorities and donor interests.
• Collaborate with Athena and WAIG teams to co-design concept notes and proposals for pilot or scale projects.
• Support stakeholder consultations, data collection, and contextual research to validate opportunity areas.

Coordination & Representation:

• Serve as the primary Nigeria-based liaison for the joint partnership, coordinating activities, meetings, and information flow.
• Support documentation, reporting, and communication of insights to global and regional teams.
• Ensure alignment of local activities with broader partnership goals around responsible and inclusive AI innovation.

 Qualifications & Experience

• 12+ years of experience working with increasingly senior level officials in Government, Foundations, Private Sector, etc.
• 5+ years of experience in AI, digital innovation, or related ecosystem-building roles, ideally with exposure to public health or education/skilling domains.
• Strong familiarity with Nigeria’s digital and AI policy landscape and networks.
• Demonstrated experience engaging with government, donor, or private-sector partners.
• Excellent communication, coordination, and analytical skills.
• Background in public policy, data science, technology management, or related fields preferred.

Additional Requirements:

• This position requires successful completion of a reference check and employment verification.
• The successful candidate must not be subject to employment restrictions from a former employer (such as a non-compete) that would prevent the candidate from performing the job responsibilities as described.
• Only candidates who have Nigeria work authorization will be considered.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online