Academics have expressed concern over what they describe as the steady decline in Nigeria’s reading culture, attributing the trend largely to the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) and social media, which they say are weakening critical thinking and diminishing intellectual engagement among young people.
The scholars voiced their concerns during discussions on the state of education and literacy in Nigeria, warning that the increasing dependence on digital tools for information and content generation is gradually replacing deep reading, independent research, and analytical reasoning.
According to the academics, while technological innovations have made access to information easier than ever, they have also encouraged a culture of instant gratification, where many students prefer summaries, short-form content, and AI-generated responses to reading textbooks, academic journals, and other comprehensive materials.
They argued that this shift is affecting students’ ability to think critically, conduct independent research, and develop strong writing and communication skills.
The scholars noted that social media platforms, with their endless streams of short videos, trending topics, and entertainment content, have significantly reduced the amount of time many young Nigerians devote to reading. They warned that excessive screen time and constant exposure to bite-sized content have shortened attention spans and discouraged sustained concentration on books and other educational resources.
The academics also expressed concern over the growing use of artificial intelligence tools in academic work, cautioning that while AI can serve as a valuable learning aid, overreliance on the technology could undermine originality, creativity, and problem-solving abilities if used without proper guidance.
They stressed that students should view AI as a complement to learning rather than a substitute for reading, research, and intellectual effort.
Beyond its impact on academic performance, the scholars warned that the decline in reading habits could have broader social consequences. They argued that reading plays a crucial role in shaping moral values, promoting empathy, broadening perspectives, and nurturing informed citizens capable of making sound judgments.
According to them, a society that neglects reading risks producing graduates who possess academic qualifications but lack the depth of knowledge, critical reasoning, and ethical values needed to address complex national challenges.
To reverse the trend, the academics called for renewed investment in literacy promotion, urging governments, educational institutions, parents, publishers, and civil society organisations to encourage reading from an early age. They advocated the establishment of more public libraries, reading clubs, literary competitions, and community-based initiatives aimed at fostering a lifelong culture of reading.
They also urged schools to integrate digital literacy with traditional reading practices, ensuring that students learn to use AI and other emerging technologies responsibly while maintaining strong research and comprehension skills.
The scholars concluded that although technology will continue to shape the future of education, cultivating a robust reading culture remains essential for national development. They maintained that striking a balance between technological advancement and intellectual discipline is critical to producing innovative, ethical, and globally competitive graduates capable of contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s progress.
