The Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof. Ishaya Tanko, has emphasised the need to address the challenges hindering the rise of AI-driven analytics and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Nigeria, particularly in tertiary education.
He identified key issues, including infrastructure deficits, funding constraints, low digital literacy, policy inconsistency, and a skills gap, as significant barriers affecting ICT in tertiary institutions.
Delivering his keynote speech during the 2025 annual conference of the Committee of Directors of ICT of Nigerian Tertiary Institutions, ComDICT- NTI, themed, “Accelerating digital transformation in Nigerian Tertiary education through Strategic ICT leadership”, he said in developed countries, universities are leveraging data analytics, cloud computing, e-learning platforms, and smart infrastructure to improve teaching, learning, and governance, and as such, Nigeria must not be left behind.
In his address titled “Transformative ICT Leadership for Sustainable Tertiary Education in Nigeria”, Prof. Tanko noted that higher education is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by technological advances, globalisation, and evolving student expectations, which are bound to harvest massive dividends for the Nigerian economy if seriously utilised.
He says, “This transformation allows for a shift from traditional lecture-based learning to more dynamic and engaging methods, such as online courses and virtual classrooms.
“Transformative ICT leadership is crucial for sustainable tertiary education in Nigeria, enabling a shift from traditional teaching methods to modern, technology-driven approaches.
“This leadership fosters digital literacy among students and staff, improves teaching and learning, streamlines administration, and enhances the institution’s global competitiveness.
“By effectively integrating ICT, Nigerian tertiary institutions can achieve sustainable development goals, including quality education and innovation. In Nigeria, integrating ICT in universities has improved teaching methods, enhanced student engagement, and streamlined communication.”
In his address, Daniel Yakmut, Chairman of the Committee of Directors of ICT of Nigerian Tertiary Institutions (ComDICT-NTI), noted that significant gaps remain. At the same time, ICT has been adopted for virtual classrooms, digital libraries, and e-administration systems.
He said that as staff of tertiary institutions, challenges such as inconsistent power supply, limited broadband access, and resistance to change, which hinder progress, remain significant.
He advised that their role as strategic leaders had never been more crucial in an era where technology evolves rapidly. “Digital transformation is not merely about adopting tools; it is about reimagining education through a lens of innovation, equity, and sustainability to foster excellence in our institutions.”
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