Availability and impact of Artificial Intelligence on information management tools in Nigerian Universities

Abstract

Abstract

The study examined the availability and impact of artificial intelligence tools on information management in Nigerian Universities. Four research questions guided the study. The descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population of the study comprised of 218 librarians from 4 selected university libraries in Nigeria purposively chosen from two zones: North central (University of Abuja and Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi) and South East (Abia state University Library, Uturu and Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka). The enumerative sampling will be adopted. The main instrument to collect data for this study will be a checklist and a questionnaire. Data collected were analysed using frequencies, mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed that majority of the AI tools are available in Nigerian Universities. There is a high level of positive impact of AI technologies at enhancing information management. There is a strong consensus that lack of adequate training and skills, insufficient digital infrastructure and unreliable power supply are the interrelated challenges that impede the effective use of AI tools in information management. Provision of comprehensive training programs, investment in reliable power supply, and securing adequate funding are the solutions that can sustainably harness AI technologies in information management. It was concluded that Nigerian Universities has successfully established a robust digital infrastructure with the availability of most leading AI tools, strengthening its position as a modern academic institution equipped for advanced information management. The study recommended that University should maintain and upgrade its digital infrastructure regularly to keep pace with emerging AI technologies and ensure uninterrupted service delivery.