Nigerian Government Advocates AI Adoption in Universities

The Federal Government has called on Nigerian universities to expedite the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies while enhancing regulatory compliance, transparency, and accountability to elevate the quality and global competitiveness of higher education. Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, the Minister of State for Education, made this appeal on October 13, 2026, during the opening of the 2026 retreat of the National Universities Commission (NUC) and vice-chancellors in Abuja.

Ahmad highlighted that the rapid transformation in higher education necessitates a review of policies, teaching methods, and administrative practices. She stressed that the integration of AI must include safeguards to maintain academic integrity and ethical practices.

The retreat, themed “Enhancing Regulatory Compliance, Governance, Leadership, and Partnership in the Nigerian University System,” aims to foster collaboration between the NUC and university managements. Ahmad also urged vice-chancellors to improve transparency in financial management and establish clear institutional visions to enhance the overall quality of university education.