ABUJA — Nigerian university Pro-Chancellors have called on institutions of higher learning to adopt artificial intelligence and digital governance tools. The call came at a conference on university management held in Abuja on Monday.
The Pro-Chancellors said AI can transform how universities manage student records, financial reporting, security, and accreditation processes. They said institutions that fail to embrace technology will fall behind both in quality and in their ability to attract international funding.
Professor Yusuf Turaki, who chaired the conference, said Nigerian universities must stop treating technology as optional. “AI is not the future of education. It is the present. Universities that ignore it are already behind,” Turaki said.
The conference focused on three main areas: AI-powered administration, digital security systems, and data-driven funding applications. Speakers presented case studies from South African and Kenyan universities that have already adopted similar tools.
Practical Applications
AI-powered administration tools can automate student registration, fee collection, transcript generation, and staff payroll. These processes are currently slow and paper-heavy at many Nigerian universities. Digitising them would save time and reduce opportunities for fraud.
In addition, digital security systems using facial recognition and smart cameras can improve safety on campuses. Many Nigerian universities have faced security challenges including theft, cult violence, and unauthorised access. Smart surveillance can help address these issues.
Furthermore, data-driven funding applications are increasingly important. International donors and development partners want universities to show evidence of results. AI-generated reports and dashboards make it easier to present this evidence in a compelling way.
Challenges to Adoption
However, experts at the conference acknowledged that adoption faces real barriers. Many Nigerian universities lack reliable electricity to power digital systems. Internet connectivity on campuses is also inconsistent. Staff training is a major cost that many institutions cannot afford.
The National Universities Commission said it is working on a digital infrastructure support fund for public universities. The fund will help institutions buy equipment and train staff. It is expected to be announced formally before the end of June 2026.
Private universities have moved faster on technology adoption. Covenant University, American University of Nigeria, and Landmark University are among the institutions already using AI tools for parts of their administrative and academic operations.
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