Technology-driven STEM Education: A Systematic Review of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions

Abstract

Since 2022, GenAI has spread rapidly across Nigerian higher education, raising questions about student learning, academic integrity, and institutional policy. To synthesize recent empirical evidence on GenAI awareness, use, outcomes, acceptance drivers or barriers among students and staff in Nigerian tertiary institutions, and to map the emerging policy landscape. We searched Google Scholar, Scopus, ERIC, PubMed, and AJOL (Jan 2022-Aug 21, 2025). Inclusion: empirical studies of Nigerian higher education stakeholders using or evaluating GenAI (or ChatGPT), and Nigerian HEI policy documents. Data were extracted on setting, sample, design, instruments, outcomes, and theoretical frameworks; quality was appraised using the JBI checklist for analytical cross -sectional studies. Narrative synthesis was used. Reporting follows PRISMA 2020. We included 8 empirical studies and policy/guidance documents. Student awareness is generally high; typical uses are summarising, brainstorming, drafting and tutoring. Predictors of intention to use cluster around usefulness or performance expectancy, ease of use, and social influence (TAM/UTAUT); perceived risk and facilitating conditions show mixed effects. Lecturers’ attitudes range from cautious to positive, but they emphasise the need for assessment of integrity and AI literacy. Institutional policies are emerging e.g., AI disclosure, forbidding use during assessments, staff training, while Nigeria lacks AI -specific statutes; use is governed by broader frameworks (e.g., NDPA 2023) as the National AI Str ategy (draft 2024). Evidence suggests growing adoption and largely constructive attitudes among students, with integrity and capacity gaps at institutional level. It was recommended that clear assessment policies, disclosure norms, targeted AI literacy for staff/students, and infrastructure support be aligned with UNESCO/OECD guidance and Nigeria’s AI strategy trajectory.