The Vice Chancellor of the Nigerian British University, Professor Hakeem Fawehinmi, has called for the strategic adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to address Nigeria’s growing insecurity and unemployment issues.

Speaking to journalists shortly after the university’s first inaugural lecture held in Asa—a border town between Abia and Rivers states—Fawehinmi emphasized that AI, if properly utilized, could generate more employment opportunities while enhancing national security.

The lecture, themed “Igniting African Renaissance in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Reclaiming Innovation and Reimagining Futures,” was delivered by Professor Ekpe Okorafor, Dean of the Faculty of Computing and Information Technology.

Fawehinmi noted that AI would enhance efficiency in manufacturing, support economic planning, and positively impact multiple sectors, including education and the arts. He expressed confidence that governments at all levels would eventually embrace AI to drive improved service delivery and decision-making.

“AI will strengthen Nigeria’s economy by digitizing many manual processes,” he said. “It’s not about replacing jobs, but about improving precision in areas like education, manufacturing, fine arts, and design.”

He added that AI’s capacity to process and analyze large volumes of data makes it a powerful tool for institutional planning and would be instrumental in fields such as aviation, logistics, and transportation.

Addressing security concerns, Fawehinmi explained that AI technologies, including robotics, offer proactive solutions for detecting and neutralizing threats with minimal casualties. “AI fits well with military operations due to its ability to function in structured environments and respond swiftly to danger,” he said.

He also praised Professor Okorafor, describing him as a respected expert in AI, and commended the formation of the university’s AI Club, which Okorafor founded.

“As part of our commitment to digital learning, we are pushing for e-learning and e-teaching initiatives to transform our campus. The students are already showing initiative—through the AI Club, they are developing innovative and entrepreneurial projects aimed at advancing AI within their environment,” Fawehinmi concluded.