The National Universities Commission (NUC) is developing a national artificial intelligence (AI) roadmap and policy framework to guide the adoption of emerging technologies in Nigerian universities.
The Executive Secretary of the commission, Prof. Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja at the opening of the 2026 NUC retreat for vice-chancellors of Nigerian universities.
Ribadu said AI and other emerging technologies were transforming teaching, learning and research, stressing that their adoption must be guided by appropriate policies and safeguards.
He identified staff training, cybersecurity, academic integrity and data protection as key considerations in ensuring the responsible use of AI across the university system.
The NUC executive secretary also announced new quality assurance measures aimed at strengthening academic standards and improving admission processes.
The measures include post-accreditation monitoring visits, post-matriculation monitoring and carrying-capacity assessments to ensure universities comply with regulatory requirements.
According to him, the commission is also developing accreditation software to improve transparency and regulatory compliance.
He added that new guidelines for the award of honorary doctorate degrees were being developed, with sanctions for universities that violate the rules.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, urged universities to strengthen accountability in financial management, recruitment, admissions and examinations.
Ahmad emphasised the need for closer collaboration between the NUC and university managements to ensure effective policy implementation.
She said stronger cooperation was necessary to achieve measurable improvements across Nigeria’s university system.
