Tech policy expert and lawyer, Timi Olagunju, has called on the Federal Government to treat Artificial Intelligence education as a critical national project in order to adequately prepare Nigerian youths for the future of work and innovation.

Speaking in Lagos, Olagunju stressed that AI education should be integrated across basic, secondary, and tertiary levels, noting that AI literacy should not be limited to technology students alone. According to him, every learner needs a basic understanding of how artificial intelligence works and how it affects daily life, opportunities, and rights.

He also urged the government to invest in teacher training, access to digital tools, reliable internet connectivity, and the development of learning materials in local languages to ensure inclusive participation, especially in underserved communities.

Olagunju further proposed the establishment of youth-focused AI councils and fellowship programmes to allow young Nigerians actively participate in shaping AI-related policies. He warned that treating AI education as a niche subject could widen inequality, as artificial intelligence continues to influence education systems, employment, and governance.

He concluded by emphasizing that positioning AI education as a national priority is essential for Nigeria to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global digital economy.