A member of the House of Representatives, Kolawole Akinlayo, has cautioned Nigerian students against over-reliance on artificial intelligence and digital learning tools, warning that misuse could undermine academic excellence.
Akinlayo, who represents Ekiti North II Federal Constituency, gave the advice on Friday in Abuja while receiving the 2026 National Association of Nigerian Students Excellence in Leadership, Service and Community Impact Award.
Speaking at the event, the lawmaker said excessive dependence on AI risks weakening students’ critical thinking abilities and overall academic performance.
“AI should be used in a positive, not in the negative way. Do not allow the computer to think for you; you should be able to think for yourself.
“In the past, you had to attend lectures, get your notebooks, take notes, keep them and read. Yet, people excelled and turned out to be brilliant students, but these days, people go on the internet to search for answers when they are given assignments and tests.
“With modern tools now, people should turn out more outstanding, but that is not the case, because people are using computers the wrong way; it’s designed to achieve greater results with less work, but people are using it the wrong way,” he said.
He also raised concerns about the unethical use of digital tools among students, linking it to poor moral upbringing.
“Today, there are student in school who use their computers for fraud. This reflects a lack of proper home training. Many parents allow their children to use computers.
“We must revive effective parental training, ensure reward and consequences for actions and then we will get better results,” he added.
Akinlayo urged teachers and parents to pay closer attention to students’ moral development, stressing the importance of discipline and ethical conduct alongside academic pursuits.
Reflecting on the award, he described it as an honour and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting students. He noted that he had introduced bursaries for students in his constituency and provides an additional N100,000 incentive for those who achieve a CGPA of 3.5 and above.
“I am honoured to receive this recognition at a time when efforts are ongoing to make Nigeria great again,” he said, while pledging continued support for student welfare and NANS activities.
Earlier, NANS President, Olusola Oladoja, said the award followed an independent assessment of the lawmaker’s performance since assuming office.
“We present this award to you in recognition of your exemplary leadership, selfless service to the nation, and remarkable contributions to community development and social impact.
“Your dedication to advancing the common good, empowering people, and driving meaningful change continues to inspire hope and foster sustainable development across Nigeria,” he said.
Oladoja added that the recognition was intended to encourage Akinlayo to further his efforts in serving his constituents, students, and the nation at large.
