The Secretary-General of the Nigerian National Commission for UNESCO, Dr Lateef Olagunju, says that Nigeria is actively working to align with global trends in digital transformation.
He made this known in Abuja during a conference themed “Harnessing AI Techniques for Efficient Information Management and Retrieval”, which brought together key stakeholders and students.
Dr Olagunju highlighted that the current administration is making significant strides to translate digital policies into actionable outcomes, particularly in the areas of digital literacy, teacher development, and the integration of emerging technologies in classrooms.
He emphasised that the focus should remain on using artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool to enhance knowledge, advance research, and empower both teachers and students, rather than as a means of replacement.
“AI can be helpful, but it can also be harmful, depending on how it is used, the younger generation is our primary target—we want them to understand the language of AI. We are also addressing challenges through UNESCO’s guidelines, ensuring that individual rights are protected in the use of AI.” he noted.
The Director of Educational Planning, Research and Development at the Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs Obianuju Anibogu represented by Mrs Khadiza Liman acknowledged the transformative potential of AI in enhancing information management and retrieval within Nigeria’s education sector.
She encouraged students to harness the capabilities of AI to develop personal skills and contribute to national growth.
“Every bit of knowledge gained from this conference will help us maximise the benefits of this technology,” she said.
Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Mr Kashifu Inuwa, said AI is rapidly reshaping the future of work, innovation, and problem-solving. He reaffirmed NITDA’s commitment to building digital capacity through targeted training programmes, innovation hubs, and inclusive policies.
FRCN
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