Industry experts and academia have emphasised that Nigeria must adopt a robust digital model that transforms key sectors, enhances digital infrastructure, and nurtures talent to be competitive in the global tech-driven economy.
Speaking at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) 18th yearly research conference, experts warned that without a digital foundation, Nigeria risks being sidelined in a world increasingly shaped by Artificial Intelligence (AI), automation, and digital connectivity.
Adeyanju, a tech expert, emphasised in his keynote address that Nigeria must transition from a knowledge-based model to a skill-based one, promoting lifelong learning and adaptability to prepare its workforce for the new reality of AI.
He emphasised that the country’s ability to navigate AI is intrinsically linked to the strength of its digital infrastructure and the foresight of government policy.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, in her remarks, urged academics to embrace AI to remain relevant.
“We actually don’t have a choice if we are to remain relevant. Universities are not about teaching; they’re about knowledge production passed to the next generation,” Ogunsola stated.
On her part, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Bola Oboh, said the new AI era has put academics at a crossroads, but emphasised that the conference theme is apt in shaping the future of academics by making them more relevant and highly sought after.
The conference highlighted the need for Nigeria to prioritise creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills, with a constant need for the adoption of life-long learning to stay relevant in the AI age.
