Abstract

This paper examines the integration of artificial intelligence in tertiary education and its implications for national development, with a particular focus on Nigeria. Drawing on recent literature and global policy developments, it defines artificial intelligence as computational systems that support personalized learning, adaptive assessment, institutional management, and research processes. It presents tertiary education as a key driver of human capital development, technological progress, and socio-economic transformation, and explains how the careful adoption of artificial intelligence can strengthen these functions. The paper identifies several opportunities. These include personalized and inclusive learning at scale, improved quality assurance and administrative efficiency, increased research productivity, and stronger graduate employability through artificial intelligence literacy and digital skills. In this way, tertiary institutions function both as users of artificial intelligence tools and as centers for developing artificial intelligence knowledge within national innovation systems. However, the paper also examines significant risks, especially in settings marked by weak infrastructure and limited regulatory capacity. Key concerns include data privacy and security vulnerabilities, algorithmic bias and digital exclusion, threats to academic integrity associated with generative systems, and potential disruptions to professional roles within and outside universities. The paper maintains that artificial intelligence is neither inherently beneficial nor harmful. Its contribution to national development depends on clear regulation, ethical safeguards, institutional preparedness, and sustained investment in infrastructure and human capacity. It concludes by recommending policy measures 166 Vol. 13, No. 1, May 2026, p166-175, ISSN: 699-3-7 THE NIGERIAN EDUCATOR, APeter Eje Ogar; Innocent Angiating Utubaku & Moses Attah Utu-Baku Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Tertiary Education For National Development: Opportunities, Risks and Policy Directions Vol. 13, No. 1, May 2026, p166-175, ISSN: 699-3-7 https://www.thenigerianeducator.com/

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