Nigeria drives AI adoption in agriculture and university administration

Professor Shehu Abdul Rahman, Vice‑Chancellor of the Federal University of Lafia, urged the use of artificial intelligence to boost food security across Nigeria and Africa. Speaking at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre in Abuja, he highlighted AI tools such as smart sprayers, robotic harvesters and image‑recognition systems that can increase yields, cut waste and improve nutrition. He also warned of high implementation costs, limited access for smallholders and data‑security risks, calling for investment in infrastructure, training and ethical frameworks. The initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s directive for the armed forces to support agriculture.

Former University of Lagos registrar Dr Folasade Taiwo Ipaye warned university registry staff nationwide to embrace AI and digital transformation or face redundancy. Addressing a lecture series at Trinity University, Lagos, she advocated skills audits, continuous upskilling, cloud‑based systems and pilot projects to modernise administrative processes. The vice‑chancellor of Trinity University echoed the message, noting that failure to adapt has already led to job losses. Both speakers emphasized that AI is no longer future technology but a present‑day tool that can reshape critical sectors in Nigeria.