The Nigerian Association of Computing Students (NACOS), Thomas Adewumi University Chapter, hosted Part 1 of its highly anticipated tech series titled “The Age of Artificial Intelligence”, marking a defining moment in the university’s growing reputation as a hub of technological advancement and innovation.
The event, held at the University’s Virtual Lab, brought together a vibrant audience of students, tech enthusiasts, and faculty members to explore the evolving impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on education, innovation, and the future of work.
In his welcome address, the President of the NACOS TAU Chapter, Comrade Oluwatodunni Obafemi, described the event as a prelude to a larger symposium scheduled later in the month during the association’s week-long activities. He emphasized the critical role of young Nigerian computing students in the unfolding AI revolution.
“This symposium is the opening chapter of a necessary dialogue, not just about the promise of AI, but about our place as young Nigerians and computing students in this transformative age,” he stated. Expressing appreciation to the guest speaker, Professor Abejide Ade-Ibijola, and the university lecturers for believing in the potential of Nigeria’s next generation of tech leaders, He closed his remarks by challenging his fellow students: “Let us not be mere spectators of change — let us be thinkers, innovators, and creators.”
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Francisca Oladipo, the Director of Academic Planning, Dr. Abiodun Ajibola, welcomed the gathering with a stirring message on the universality of AI: “Artificial Intelligence is here, and it has come to stay. It cuts across departments, industries, and every sector. This event is a convergence of practitioners, learners, and visionaries — a space to reflect, shape, and ensure AI evolves inclusively for the benefit of all humanity.”
Delivering the keynote address was the top AI Professor in Africa, Professor Abejide Ade-Ibijola, a renowned Professor of Artificial Intelligence & Applications at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa. His presentation, titled “The Age of Artificial Intelligence”, focused on the real-world applications of Serious Games & Artificial Intelligence in Education.
He introduced the audience to key trends in AI-powered learning, including: Chatbots for student support, AI-driven curriculum enhancement through data analysis, Robotics kits for learners, Virtual and Augmented Reality in Education, and others. Prof. Ade-Ibijola also highlighted twelve recent Serious Games developed by his JBS Innovation Lab, including:
- VR Game for Training Small Businesses (2023)
- Electrochemical in VR (2023)
- Plagi-Warfare 30 (2021)
- Rogue-AI for Teaching AI Ethics (2022)
- Dev Game for Teaching Programming (2022)
- …and several others designed to blend immersive learning with real-world applications.
He elaborated on the student developer model that supports such innovations, emphasizing the need for; A strong foundation in algorithms, logic, and data structures; GRIT, discipline, mentorship; Extensive funding support; Institutional collaboration and IP policies. While noting the challenges in developing and sustaining AI-powered educational tools — such as commercialization, game maintenance, and funding limitations — Prof. Ade-Ibijola also highlighted tremendous opportunities: job creation, skill development, local content creation, and making learning fun and engaging.
With this symposium, the Thomas Adewumi University NACOS Chapter has taken a bold and inspiring step toward embracing the future of computing and AI. The initiative not only deepens students’ understanding of artificial intelligence but also prepares them to take on leadership roles in AI research, digital innovation, and global tech transformation.
