By Paul Chimodo
In the vibrant tapestry of Nigeria’s cities and quiet towns, a notable transformation is unfolding as young people increasingly embrace artificial intelligence (AI) tools in their everyday lives. As technology becomes intertwined with education, work, and social interactions, the implications for critical thinking, creativity, and personal relationships are profound. As reliance on AI deepens, a closer look at both its advantages and potential drawbacks is essential.
With over half of Nigeria’s population under the age of 30, the youth of the nation are confronting the demands of a rapidly changing educational landscape and an unpredictable job market. AI tools, ranging from chatbots to educational applications, have gained immense popularity, providing immediate solutions to complex challenges.
Daniel Fasanya, a 19-year-old student who lives with his parents in Lagos, shared his reliance on AI for academic support: “I use tools like ChatGPT for nearly everything. When I have an assignment, I just type in my question, and it gives me answers in seconds. It feels like having a personal tutor available 24/7.” Daniel’s experience underscores the convenience that AI offers, but it also raises questions about the depth of understanding that comes with this dependency.
Oluchi Ogbu, a university student based in Enugu, in southeastern Nigeria, highlighted a growing concern among her peers: “It’s fantastic to access information quickly, but sometimes I realize I don’t grasp the material as well as I should. I rely on AI to provide answers instead of truly engaging with the topics and developing critical thinking.”
The embrace of AI is not uniform across Nigeria. In urban areas, ready access to smartphones and reliable internet fosters a seamless integration of AI into daily life. However, rural regions still confront challenges, including limited technological access. Aisha Bello, a high school student in Kaduna in north western Nigeria, reflected, “Most of my friends use AI for their studies, but in my village, we struggle to connect to the internet. For those of us with access, it can take hours just to learn how to navigate these tools.”
This digital divide raises important questions about equity in education and future workforce preparedness. As urban youths become adept with AI, there is a valid fear that educational disparities may widen, leaving rural students at a disadvantage. Experts warn that if left unaddressed, such inequalities could have lasting effects on the nation’s socio-economic landscape.
Despite the challenges, the benefits of AI are undeniable. It opens doors to extensive information and learning resources that were previously inaccessible to many. Efe Abigor, an aspiring software developer based in Port Harcour, Rivers State, noted, “AI has enabled me to learn coding on my own through free platforms and tutorials. I can ask questions and receive answers rapidly, allowing me to enhance my skills without formal education.”
Additionally, AI can be a catalyst for creativity and innovation. Many young people are using AI-generated art, music, and designs as avenues for personal expression. Kemi, a graphic design student in Abuja, remarked, “I use AI tools to inspire my designs. They help me visualize ideas I might not have considered otherwise. It’s like having a brainstorming partner.”
As the landscape evolves, education and technology experts stress the need for a balanced approach to integrating AI into learning. Education psychologist Dr. Ayo Adebayo, based in Lagos, explained, “AI can significantly enhance education when used correctly. It can support personalized learning and foster creativity, but we must ensure it does not replace fundamental skills like critical thinking.”
Similarly, technology consultant Dr. Viola Anyanwu emphasized the importance of responsible AI use: “Young people need guidance on how to utilize these tools effectively. While AI can provide quick answers, it’s essential that students develop skills to critically evaluate the information and understand its limitations. AI should serve as a supplement, not a substitute, for genuine learning.”
A troubling trend associated with reliance on AI is a potential stagnation in critical thinking and creativity. Niyi, a final-year political science student at the University of Ibadan, expressed concern: “Sometimes, I find my arguments weaker because I’ve grown accustomed to AI outlining ideas for me rather than developing them myself.”
This observation resonates with Uche, a secondary school teacher in Warri, Delta State, also located in the Niger Delta region, who pointed out, “I’ve noticed students relying heavily on online summaries and AI-generated content. Their approach to writing and critical analysis lacks depth, as they’re no longer engaging fully with the material.”
It’s not only students who are navigating this technological landscape; adults are increasingly relying on AI for tasks like drafting emails or seeking quick solutions to complex problems. This growing dependency raises concerns about the future generation’s abilities to think independently and creatively.
As Nigeria charts its course amid this AI revolution, the challenge becomes clear: how can its youth harness the benefits of AI while nurturing essential life skills? One potential solution lies in educational reforms that integrate AI literacy into curricula.
Dr. Grace Obinna, an education policy expert, advocated for a fresh perspective on teaching: “We need to rethink our educational strategies and incorporate AI into the learning journey. It should be part of a larger toolkit, but we must stress the importance of critical engagement with the material. Teaching students to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and think creatively should accompany the use of AI.”
Moreover, support from parents and educators can foster an environment where young individuals remain vigilant about maintaining their critical thinking and creativity. Technology entrepreneur Ejiro from Lagos highlighted the need for innovation: “We must create spaces where young people can experiment with their ideas, using AI as a tool but not a crutch.”
The emergence of artificial intelligence in Nigeria presents a dual-edged sword for its youth. While AI offers unparalleled access to information and fosters creativity, there exists the risk of diminishing critical thinking skills and increasing technological dependence. As Nigeria navigates this technological transformation, it is crucial to strike a balance that empowers young people while preserving their analytical and creative capabilities. The future of Nigeria’s youth rests on their ability to adapt, innovate, and think independently in an age where AI weaves seamlessly into the fabric of daily life.
