Former Kwara State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, has urged the University of Ilorin to set up a University Ethics and AI Board to guide data-driven research and protect public trust as the institution moves into its next 50 years.
Ahmed made the call on Friday while delivering the keynote address at the Unilorin Alumni Colloquium titled “From Unilorin to Globalisation.” He said new technologies like artificial intelligence and big data are changing the world, and universities must strengthen transparency, accountability, and responsible innovation to remain relevant.
He warned that institutions without strong ethical oversight risk losing credibility in a future shaped by digital systems and automated decision-making.
Reflecting on his days as a student, Ahmed said Unilorin played a key role in shaping his leadership journey and instilling discipline. He described the university’s Golden Jubilee as more than a celebration – but a moment to rethink its place in a fast-changing world.
Although he commended Unilorin for its stable academic calendar and long-standing excellence, he stressed that past achievements alone cannot address global challenges such as AI disruption, climate change, migration, and economic uncertainty.
Ahmed unveiled a “globalisation blueprint” for the university, calling for a major curriculum overhaul focused on digital literacy, data skills, community-based learning, and industry-driven research. He also proposed an Alumni Seed Fund, a Curriculum Innovation Unit, and stronger partnerships with government and industry to turn academic ideas into real-world solutions.
He encouraged lecturers to engage more with the public and urged students to stay curious, ambitious, and solution-driven.
Ahmed concluded that Unilorin’s next 50 years must prioritise public impact, responsible innovation, and leadership in solving Nigeria’s toughest developmental challenges.
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