APPLICATION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) IN THE ADMINISTRATION OF NIGERIAN UNIVERSITIES: CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVEMENT

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly shaping how universities organise information, deliver services, allocate resources and support decision-making. In Nigerian universities, the potential of AI is especially relevant because administrators operate within systems characterised by rising enrolment, complex records, resource constraints, infrastructure deficits and growing expectations for timely, transparent and data-informed services. This conceptual paper examines the application of AI in the administration of Nigerian universities, with emphasis on administrative opportunities, implementation challenges and strategies for responsible integration. A focused narrative review of peer-reviewed studies and policy documents on AI in higher education and educational management was undertaken, with particular attention to recent Nigerian evidence and international guidance. The review shows that AI can support admissions and enrolment, student records, human-resource management, timetabling, finance, student support, predictive analytics, quality assurance, research administration, library services and institutional planning. However, meaningful adoption is constrained by inadequate digital infrastructure, unstable electricity and connectivity, limited staff competence, high implementation costs, fragmented data systems, privacy and cyber-security risks, algorithmic bias, weak governance arrangements and concerns about job displacement and overreliance on automated systems. The paper argues that Nigerian universities should treat AI as a governed institutional capability rather than as a stand-alone technology. It recommends phased implementation, robust data governance, staff capacity development, human oversight, ethical and legal safeguards, interoperability of institutional systems, sustainable financing and continuous evaluation. Responsible adoption can improve administrative efficiency and service quality, but AI should augment rather than replace professional judgement and human accountability in university administration.