Google has introduced support for Yorùbá and Hausa in its Artificial Intelligence powered search tools, allowing more Nigerians to interact with advanced search features using their native languages.
The announcement was made on Thursday by Taiwo Kola Ogunlade, Google’s Communications and Public Affairs Manager for West Africa. According to him, the update enables users who speak the two languages to access AI driven search results that provide quick summaries and allow more interactive, conversational queries.
He explained that the move is part of Google’s wider strategy to expand access to artificial intelligence across Africa and make its services more inclusive for local language speakers.
With the addition of Yorùbá and Hausa, the number of African languages supported by the company’s AI search tools has now increased to 13.
Kola Ogunlade noted that the feature allows users to ask questions and receive information in languages they use daily. For instance, a student in Kano can search for academic information in Hausa, while a trader in Ibadan may seek guidance in Yorùbá.
He said building an effective global search system requires more than simple translation, stressing that it involves understanding local context and information needs.
According to him, the search platform is powered by a customised version of Google’s Gemini model, which improves language comprehension and reasoning capabilities.
He added that the technology ensures AI search responses remain relevant and useful for people using different languages.
The update also enables users to ask complex questions through text or voice in their preferred language, allowing them to explore information online in a more natural and conversational way.
