The Abdul Samad Rabiu International Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ASR-ICiE) on Wednesday hosted the 2026 AI Adoption Day, bringing together students, staff, development partners and technology experts to promote practical and responsible use of artificial intelligence.
The event, held as part of a global initiative themed “Bring Everyone Along”, focused on accelerating AI adoption across teaching, research, administration and enterprise, while raising awareness on the need to ensure no one is left behind as technology evolves.
The event highlighted that as artificial intelligence becomes part of everyday life, many people still lack the opportunity to understand, use or benefit from it, stressing the need to make AI accessible, responsible and people-centred.
The event also noted that the observance is designed for everyone, including young people, professionals, job seekers and community members, adding that it aims to demystify AI and provide practical ways it can be applied in work, education and daily life.
In his opening remarks, the Director of the centre, Professor Muhammad Dauda, described artificial intelligence as a tool for all, not limited to specialists.
Dauda, also Coordinator of the UNDP UniPod, said the centre remained committed to advancing innovation, entrepreneurship and employability through emerging technologies.
In a goodwill message, Professor Ibrahim Ilya, Director of Research and Innovation, University of Maiduguri, emphasised responsible AI adoption, improved research output and the institution’s readiness to align with global trends in learning and work.
Dignitaries at the event included representatives of the United Nations Development Programme, Engr. Samuel, Engr. Yadak, the Deputy Director of ASR-ICiE, the Chief Executive Officer of InoTech, Mr Albashir, Deputy Director of ICT and UNDP UniPod Facility Focal Person, Dr Peter Mshelia, Head of Department of Agricultural Economics, as well as other university staff.
A major highlight of the programme was a panel discussion on “Humans in the Lead — AI for Teaching, Research, Employability and Enterprise.”
Facilitators of the session included Dr Aliyu Bello, Dr Yusuf Peter Dibal, Mr Albashir and Amatullah Aliyu Kida.
Panelists demonstrated how AI can be applied in teaching, academic research, business development and workplace productivity, stressing the need for ethical use, data privacy and human control.
Participants were also introduced to practical AI prompts, including marketing, administrative and academic prompts, to enhance efficiency in various fields.
The experts further listed several AI tools suitable for different purposes. For general writing and brainstorming, they identified tools such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Claude, Microsoft Copilot and Perplexity AI.
They also highlighted tools for business and innovation, including Startup.ai, Kreś.me, DeepFounder.ai, DimeADozen.ai and Female Switch.
The question-and-answer session focused on practical issues, with participants seeking guidance on how to generate income using AI, as well as how to write research papers and academic projects effectively.
Secondary school students who attended the event shared their experiences with AI, expressing optimism about applying the knowledge gained to benefit their communities.
The programme also highlighted potential dangers associated with artificial intelligence, particularly misuse, misinformation, plagiarism and data privacy concerns, urging users to verify outputs and apply the technology responsibly.
The event concluded with a renewed call for wider participation in AI-driven opportunities and continuous learning to prepare for the future of work.
