The transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in advancing modern information systems took centre stage at the National Conference on “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) Techniques for Efficient Information Management and Retrieval,” held from June 3rd to 5th, 2025, at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Asokoro, Abuja.
In her opening remarks delivered on behalf of the Director of Educational Planning, Research and Development, Mrs. Anigbogu Obiajunu, the Director of Education Management and SDG4 Program Coordinator at the Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs. Khádijat Liman, described the theme as timely and essential amidst the exponential growth of data globally. She emphasized that traditional data systems are no longer adequate and highlighted the urgent need for adopting advanced AI techniques—including machine learning, natural language processing, and data mining—to enhance the speed, precision, and contextual understanding of information management across various sectors.
Mrs. Liman further noted that the conference served as a critical platform for interdisciplinary collaboration among educators, researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers. She urged participants to engage actively in discussions that bridge theoretical knowledge and the practical application of AI in education and information systems.
In his welcome address, Secretary-General of the Nigerian National Commission for UNESCO, Dr. Lateef Olagunju, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to ethical and inclusive AI adoption in alignment with UNESCO’s global priorities. He underscored the relevance of AI in transforming vital sectors such as education, national security, healthcare, digital libraries, and enterprise systems. According to Dr. Olagunju, the conference aimed to build capacity, promote ethical AI deployment, and stimulate innovation through cross-sectoral partnerships.
Delivering a goodwill message, the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, commended the initiative for aligning with UNESCO’s digital transformation goals. He reiterated NITDA’s dedication to digital inclusion, ethical AI governance, open science, and enhanced digital literacy. Abdullahi stressed the need for continued synergy among government agencies, academia, and the private sector to ensure AI development serves inclusive education, cultural preservation, and national progress, particularly within the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Also addressing the conference, Associate Professor of Information Systems and AI at the University of Jos, Dr. Yinka Oyerinde, allayed fears that AI would replace educators. Instead, he presented AI as a powerful tool that can support and enhance teaching by simplifying lesson planning and improving learning outcomes.
Similarly, AI expert Dr. Patrick Adeneye countered concerns about AI promoting student laziness, arguing that AI facilitates deeper learning by granting access to a broad spectrum of educational content. He acknowledged challenges in extending AI access to underserved regions but expressed confidence that sustained engagement and capacity-building would address such gaps.
With vibrant participation from academia, government, and technology stakeholders, the three-day conference laid a solid foundation for developing sustainable, ethical, and inclusive AI-driven solutions to transform Nigeria’s information and education ecosystems.
ADEOLA KUNLE
