The National Universities Commission (NUC) is drafting a national AI policy to guide how Nigerian universities use artificial intelligence in teaching, learning and research.
It is one strand of the commission's drive to raise the standard of university education across the country.
The NUC Executive Secretary, Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, disclosed this during a two-day retreat involving the commission and vice-chancellors of Nigerian universities in Abuja. The retreat, held from October 13 to 14, 2026, focused on improving governance, leadership, accountability and regulatory compliance in the university system.
NUC Develops Guidelines for AI Use
The proposed policy will provide guidance on how universities can use AI in their academic activities. AI tools can help students understand difficult topics, assist lecturers in preparing learning materials and support researchers in analysing data.
However, the use of these tools also raises concerns. Students may use AI to complete assignments without understanding the work. Researchers may also face questions about originality, accuracy and proper acknowledgement of AI-generated content.
The Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Ahmad, urged universities to adopt AI and other digital technologies. She also stressed the need for clear rules to protect academic integrity, ethical standards and personal data.
A national AI policy could help universities develop consistent guidelines. It could also clarify the responsibilities of students, lecturers, researchers, and university administrators when using AI.
NUC Steps Up University Reforms
The AI policy is part of wider reforms being pursued by the NUC to improve Nigerian university education. Professor Ribadu said the commission was strengthening its regulatory and quality assurance systems. The main measures are:
- guidelines for awarding honorary doctorate degrees;
- monitoring of universities after admissions, to assess their capacity to admit students;
- post-accreditation monitoring visits, which will help determine whether academic programmes continue to meet required standards after receiving accreditation;
- Blueprint 2.0, a completed policy document that outlines reforms covering curriculum development, infrastructure, research, funding, governance and graduate employability.
These measures are intended to ensure that universities provide quality education and produce graduates with relevant knowledge and practical skills.
Digital Technology to Improve Teaching and Research
The NUC believes that universities must respond to changes in technology and the global economy. AI, digital learning, and data analysis are changing how people study, conduct research and work.
Nigerian universities can use these technologies to improve teaching methods and research output. For example, AI can help researchers organise large datasets and identify patterns. It can also help them explore possible solutions to problems in agriculture, healthcare, education and environmental management.
Digital platforms can also improve university administration. The NUC has introduced e-NUC to automate some of its operations. It is also developing accreditation software to support transparency, data management and quality assurance.
However, technology alone cannot solve the challenges facing universities. Institutions need reliable internet access, suitable equipment and trained staff. They must also establish clear policies on data protection, cybersecurity and the responsible use of digital tools.
Universities Asked to Improve Accountability
The Federal Government has also called on university leaders to strengthen accountability and transparency. Professor Ahmad urged vice-chancellors to ensure proper financial management and fair procedures in procurement, staff recruitment, promotions, admissions and examinations.
She said universities should set clear goals and measurable performance targets. These measures would help institutions assess their progress and identify areas that need improvement.
The government also wants universities to focus more on research, innovation and practical solutions to national problems. Stronger partnerships between universities, government agencies and private companies could help turn research findings into useful products, services and business opportunities.
Funding Remains a Major Challenge
Despite the planned reforms, inadequate funding remains a major concern for Nigerian universities. Many institutions need better facilities, modern laboratories, digital infrastructure and more support for research.
Professor Ribadu encouraged universities to seek additional funding through partnerships with private companies, alumni associations and development organisations. Such partnerships could support research and technology projects.
However, universities must ensure that these arrangements serve their educational goals and comply with regulatory requirements.
What the National AI Policy could mean for Students
The proposed national AI policy could help students and lecturers understand how AI should be used in academic work. It may also encourage universities to include relevant digital skills in their teaching and research activities.
However, the impact will depend on how the policy is designed and implemented. Universities will need to train their staff, educate students and provide access to appropriate digital tools.
The NUC will also need to ensure that institutions follow the guidelines. Clear rules, regular monitoring and adequate funding will be important to the policy's success.
The development of a national AI policy represents another step in Nigeria's effort to reform higher education. If properly implemented, it could help universities use technology responsibly, improve research and prepare graduates for a changing world of work.
Summary
The National Universities Commission (NUC) is developing a national artificial intelligence (AI) policy to guide the use of AI in Nigerian universities. The policy aims to promote responsible AI use in teaching, learning and research while protecting academic integrity and personal data. The initiative forms part of wider reforms to improve university education, strengthen quality assurance and promote accountability.
The NUC is also introducing digital tools to improve accreditation and administrative processes. However, successful implementation will require adequate funding, reliable internet access, staff training and clear guidelines. The reforms aim to improve research and prepare graduates for the changing world of work.
