The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has called for responsible integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into Nigeria’s education system, stressing that the technology should strengthen teachers rather than replace them.

Hamzat made the call at the 13th Professor Adetokunbo Babatunde Sofoluwe Memorial Anniversary Lecture held at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, Lagos.

The lecture, organised by the UNILAG Alumni Association, Lagos Branch, in conjunction with Yaba Local Council Development Area (LCDA), is themed, “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for the Sustainable Development of Nigeria’s Education System.”

Hamzat said Nigeria’s education crisis goes beyond inadequate funding, noting that challenges in planning, coordination, delivery and access to reliable information also affect the sector.

According to him, AI can help education authorities make better decisions by providing real-time information on student enrollment, teacher availability, infrastructure and the effectiveness of public investments.

He said AI could also assist teachers in developing learning materials and exercises suited to different levels of ability, assessing students, identifying learning gaps and supporting marking.

Hamzat urged teachers not to perceive AI as a threat to their profession but as a tool that could strengthen their ability to teach and connect with students.

He said while AI could generate information, identify learning gaps and assist with academic tasks, it could not replace the human understanding, communication and emotional connection teachers bring to the classroom.

He also advocated the development of AI systems that reflect Nigeria’s linguistic and cultural diversity, rather than relying solely on systems designed around English and foreign contexts.

The deputy governor further warned that unequal access to digital devices and technology could widen the existing education gap between children from privileged and disadvantaged backgrounds.

Hamzat further raised concerns about the protection of students personal information as AI becomes increasingly integrated into education.

Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, Owoeye Adedeji Adeyemo, said the memorial lecture remained a means of preserving the legacy of Prof. Sofoluwe, whom he described as a visionary, mentor and champion of academic excellence.

Adeyemo noted that the 13th edition marked the first time the UNILAG Alumni Association, Lagos Branch, partnered with Yaba LCDA for the lecture.

He said the partnership represented a bridge between “town and gown”, demonstrating how academia and grassroots governance could collaborate to promote development.

Adeyemo urged stakeholders to approach AI adoption thoughtfully and ethically, with the objective of building an education system capable of serving Nigerians while adapting to changing technological realities