A Professor of Artificial Intelligence at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Prof. Sunday Olatunji, has called for the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a compulsory course for all students in Nigerian tertiary institutions, regardless of their discipline.
Olatunji also urged Nigeria and other African countries to adopt deliberate policies aimed at building an inclusive, ethical and technologically independent AI ecosystem capable of driving national development.
The don made the call on Tuesday while delivering AAUA’s 53rd Inaugural Lecture, titled “Symbiosis of Mind and Machine: Harnessing AI for National Development,” at the university’s Multipurpose Hall.
According to him, AI has moved beyond the realm of science fiction and now shapes virtually every aspect of human existence, making it imperative for students to possess basic AI literacy. He likened the proposal to the introduction of Computer Appreciation courses decades ago, arguing that the time had come for “AI Appreciation” to be included as a General Studies course nationwide.
He explained that such a course would expose students to AI fundamentals, machine learning concepts, applications across disciplines, ethical considerations and the role of AI in national growth.
The professor, who was recently ranked by the National Universities Commission as Nigeria’s best AI researcher for 2025, called on governments to establish AI innovation hubs in tertiary institutions, provide targeted research grants for local challenges and recruit specialised faculty in AI-related fields.
Olatunji dismissed fears that artificial intelligence would replace humans, noting that technology historically redefines, rather than diminishes, human relevance. He said AI should be viewed as a tool for amplifying human intelligence, improving governance, enhancing transparency and strengthening policy formulation through data-driven insights.
He stressed the need for a comprehensive national AI policy, ethical frameworks and accountability mechanisms that align with global standards while reflecting African values. He also advocated the development of AI solutions in local languages to promote inclusion, cultural identity and rural empowerment.
The AAUA Dean of Computing further underscored the importance of collaboration among universities, industry, government and international partners to accelerate innovation, support AI start-ups and ensure the commercialisation of research outputs.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of AAUA, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, described Olatunji as a globally recognised scholar whose contributions have elevated the university’s profile. He commended the inaugural lecturer for his pioneering role in establishing the Faculty of Computing and for his extensive research impact in the field of artificial intelligence.
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