As schools reopen across Nigeria, students are increasingly turning to Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a learning companion. According to Google Search data, interest in “AI + studying” surged by more than 200 percent compared to last year, highlighting a growing reliance on AI-powered tools for academic support.
The rise in AI adoption is not limited to education alone. Google reported that national search interest in AI reached an all-time high in 2025, climbing 60 percent within just 12 months. Olumide Balogun, Google’s West Africa director, noted that students are using AI to tackle complex subjects like chemistry and mathematics. He emphasized that this curiosity and hands-on approach could help shape Nigeria’s next generation of innovators.
Students are no longer simply curious about what AI is—they are actively learning how to integrate it into daily study routines. Searches for “AI + lessons” rose 60 percent, while discipline-specific queries such as “AI + Chemistry” (+50%), “AI + Maths” (+30%), “AI + Languages” (+30%), and “AI + Grammar” (+20%) reflect a broader shift in how technology is being applied across education. Popular searches also include “AI tutor for students” and “free AI tools for studying,” underscoring the demand for accessible digital study aids.
The growing enthusiasm is not without concerns. Searches for “AI detection” jumped by 290 percent in the past year, showing that students are becoming more aware of issues surrounding academic integrity and plagiarism. This reflects the balancing act between using AI to aid learning while maintaining originality and ethical standards in education.
Beyond classrooms, Nigerian students are also exploring AI for career opportunities. Queries about generative AI, certification programs, and professional applications are on the rise, signaling that young Nigerians see AI not just as a tool for passing exams but also as a pathway to future careers in the global digital economy.
source: business day