As artificial intelligence continues to transform industries, workplaces and everyday activities, Nigerian higher institutions are increasing their efforts to equip students with skills needed for an increasingly technology-driven economy.
Universities are expanding their academic programmes across areas such as computer science, data science, artificial intelligence and machine learning, reflecting the growing demand for professionals who can work with emerging technologies.
Here are some Nigerian institutions developing programmes and training opportunities around AI and related fields.
Covenant University
Covenant University, Ota, has incorporated Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning into its academic programmes, alongside specialised Computer Science tracks focused on AI research and development.
The university also includes AI, robotics and machine learning courses within its Computer Science and Information and Communication Engineering curricula for undergraduate students.
At postgraduate level, students can specialise in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning through the university’s full-time M.Sc. and Ph.D. Computer Science programmes.
The institution also hosts AI training sessions, workshops and collaborative research bootcamps. These include Data Science Nigeria bootcamps and cloud-based research initiatives supported by Google.
Federal University of Technology, Akure
The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) has integrated AI into its Computer Science curriculum, with a focus on practical learning and research.
Although the university does not currently offer a standalone B.Tech degree specifically titled Artificial Intelligence, AI-related courses are incorporated into existing undergraduate programmes across its computing and engineering departments.
University of Lagos
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) offers Computer Science programmes with areas of specialisation and electives focused on Artificial Intelligence.
The university also has an Artificial Intelligence and Robotics specialisation alongside Computer Science and Cybersecurity.
From the 2026/2027 academic session, UNILAG added Artificial Intelligence as a standalone degree option, giving prospective students a direct pathway into the field.
University of Ibadan
The University of Ibadan has expanded its computing offerings through its newly established Faculty of Computing.
The institution offers a B.Sc. programme in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, alongside postgraduate training in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence.
The programmes are designed to develop expertise in areas that are becoming increasingly important across technology, research and industry.
African University of Science and Technology
The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Abuja, provides advanced postgraduate opportunities and research tracks connected to intelligent computing and artificial intelligence.
While the institution does not currently offer a full standalone AI degree programme, its postgraduate and research activities cover areas related to the technology.
Kaduna State University
Kaduna State University (KASU) offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Artificial Intelligence through its Department of Intelligent Computing.
The programme prepares students for potential careers across technology companies, government agencies, private organisations and research institutions.
Lagos Data School
Lagos Data School in Ikeja is not a conventional university and does not award traditional university degrees. However, it provides professional training for people looking to develop practical AI skills.
Its programmes cover areas including Python, Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn and TensorFlow, alongside practical projects designed to help learners apply AI and machine learning concepts.
Universities urged to become innovation hubs
Experts say Nigerian universities need to move beyond their traditional role as centres of teaching and become broader innovation ecosystems that can contribute to the country’s technological development.
“The rapid growth of AI presents both opportunities and challenges for Nigerian universities. Institutions that embrace research and digital innovation will lead national progress in the AI era,” they say.
The growing use of AI is also creating opportunities for Nigerians outside formal university programmes. People are already using AI tools for writing, graphic design, data analysis, automation and business support for clients locally and internationally.
AI education gaining global attention
The push to incorporate AI into education is not limited to Nigeria. Countries around the world are introducing AI into their education systems at different levels.
The United Arab Emirates, for example, has introduced AI lessons for children as young as four, exposing them to areas such as prompt writing and responsible use of the technology.
China has made AI education compulsory across its education system from primary through secondary levels. Saudi Arabia has also announced plans for an AI curriculum, while Australia, working with Amazon Web Services, is providing AI education to one million primary and secondary school students, with an emphasis on ethics.
The growing focus reflects a broader understanding that AI education is not solely about producing programmers. It is also about preparing people to think critically, work with emerging technologies and participate effectively in an increasingly AI-driven world.
For Nigerian higher institutions, expanding AI programmes and research could therefore play an important role in preparing students for changing career opportunities while supporting the country’s wider digital transformation.
