ACU Don Says AI Literacy and Critical Thinking Key to Combating Misinformation and Achieving SDGs

The 30th Inaugural Lecturer of Ajayi Crowther University, ACU, Oyo, Prof. Ayoku Akanni Ojedokun, has urged government to integrate information literacy into Nigeria’s educational system from primary school to university level to equip citizens against misinformation and build a knowledge-driven society.  

Delivering the lecture on Tuesday, 25 August 2026, titled “From Access to Empowerment: Navigating the Digital Age,” Prof. Ojedokun, Professor of Library and Information Science, said providing internet access alone is not enough for national progress.  

He argued that the digital revolution has shifted societies from industrial-based to knowledge-based economies, where the ability to create, store, access, and utilise information is now critical for development and for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs.  

“Information is the bedrock of sound decision-making, policy formulation, and educational advancement,” he stated.  

He warned that the volume of information available today poses a major challenge, adding that without evaluation skills, citizens risk being overwhelmed and misled.  

The don made a case for integrating Artificial Intelligence, AI, literacy into information literacy education. While noting AI’s potential, he cautioned that over-reliance on AI tools could weaken critical thinking and independent analysis.  

“Addressing misinformation, ethical concerns, and the growing danger of uncritical AI use is essential,” he said, calling for a curriculum that teaches students not just how to use AI, but how to think alongside it.  

To achieve this, Prof. Ojedokun called on the National Universities Commission, NUC, and the Federal Ministry of Education to institutionalise information literacy across the education sector. He advocated a structured approach embedded in course objectives and assessments, rather than sporadic workshops.  

He further urged collaboration between government and the private sector to bridge the digital divide through affordable internet and modern technologies, describing digital inclusion as a fundamental pillar of national empowerment.  

The professor also highlighted libraries and librarians as frontline champions of information literacy, and called for practical training programmes for learners and professionals, as well as regular retraining for workers through professional development workshops.  

In conclusion, Prof. Ojedokun noted that empowering citizens with information literacy skills is essential for navigating information overload, combating fake news, and functioning effectively in today’s information-driven society.  

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, who chaired the lecture, described Prof. Ojedokun as a determined academic who worked his way to the top.  

By Oluka Emeka Samuel and Ifeoluwa Adediran  

Photo Credit: Victorious Cinematography