Higher institutions, across the nation Nigeria have been stirred to dive into innovation ecosystems, rather than merely functioning as centres of instruction, in order to leverage the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and drive national development.
Dr Ken Opara, who is the former President of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), and the current executive Director of Fidelity Bank made this call at the second lecture series organised by the Faculty of Arts, Management and Social Sciences of Trinity University, Yaba, Lagos.
The lecture, titled: ‘Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work: Opportunities and Challenges for Students, Professionals, and Institutions in a Digital Era’, sought to examine the effects of AI on the future workforce and the responsibility of educational institutions in equipping students for this emerging reality.
Opara noted that the swift advancement of AI brings both opportunities and challenges for Nigerian universities. He encouraged students to cultivate data literacy, critical thinking, and digital ethics to succeed in a world increasingly influenced by AI.
“In this digital age, progress will not rely solely on machines, but on individuals who wield them with wisdom and compassion,” he stated. Opara stressed that institutions that prioritize research and digital innovation will spearhead national advancement in the AI era. He urged universities to transcend theoretical knowledge and integrate AI literacy, entrepreneurship, and problem-solving into all fields of study.
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While discussing the potential economic advantages of AI, Opara mentioned that it could contribute over $15.7 trillion to the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2030, and as much as $1.2 trillion to Africa’s total GDP by 2035. In Nigeria, he revealed that AI could add up to $50 billion to the economy by 2035.
Nevertheless, Opara pointed out several challenges, including the possible automation of 40 percent of administrative and clerical positions within the next decade. He stressed that what is required is not fear, but preparedness, re-skilling, and responsible innovation.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Clement Kolawole, echoed Opara’s views, stating that AI is transforming science, reshaping scholarship, and impacting every aspect of life. He asserted that educational institutions must adapt to prepare students for success in this new landscape.
Kolawole also urged the federal government to invest in digital infrastructure, enhance broadband access, and reform education, while ensuring that AI does not worsen existing inequalities.
