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From Abel Leonard, Lafia
Businesses across Nigeria have been urged to increase investments in modern technologies to boost efficiency, remain competitive, and prepare for the growing impact of Artificial Intelligence and robotics on the global workforce.
Delivering the 56th Inaugural Lecture of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, on Wednesday, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Business Administration, Prof. Barnabas Embugus Barde, warned that organisations that fail to embrace digital tools risk obsolescence.
Speaking on the theme “Business Administration in the Digital Age: Navigating the Impact of Business, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Data Analytics and Entrepreneurship (BARDE)”, Prof. Barde stressed the need for companies not only to adopt technology but also to train their employees to deploy it effectively.
He said, “Businesses should understand the potential of each area and how they can be leveraged to create new opportunities and stay competitive. They must also be aware of the potential risks and challenges associated with each area and be willing to invest in research, development, experimentation, and innovation.”
While highlighting the implications of the budget model for business strategy, he explained that technology-driven systems can significantly improve decision-making, efficiency, productivity, revenue generation, and risk management. However, he warned that technological advancement also presents serious concerns.
According to him, “AI and robotics are gradually taking away jobs from humans. Yes, artificial intelligence is taking over our jobs. Robotics are taking over our jobs. Employees must learn and equip themselves with relevant skills to remain useful in the workplace.”
He added that data analytics can support targeted advertising and product development, but businesses must ensure that employees’ emotions and well-being are not neglected in the drive for automation and efficiency.
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Prof. Barde said, “Businesses should carefully evaluate the potential benefits and challenges of incorporating these areas in their operations and address the potential risks while taking advantage of the benefits.”
He further noted that entrepreneurship can help organisations create new business models and revenue streams driven by digital technologies. He emphasised that the workforce must also be prepared for displacement and the demand for new skills.
“The budget model represents a dynamic environment that requires businesses to stay informed and adapt quickly. By taking a strategic and holistic approach, businesses can improve operations, enhance customer experience, and achieve wealth maximisation objectives,” he added.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Prof. Maikano Ari, commended Prof. Barde for delivering a timely and insightful lecture.
He noted, “The presentation speaks to the realities shaping industries and the competences required for survival in a world driven by automation, digital intelligence, and innovation. Professor Barnabas embodies depth of intellect and a strong legacy of grooming future leaders in business and management sciences.”
Also speaking, Chairman of the Expanded Planning Committee and Senior Lecturer in the Department of Entrepreneurship Studies, Dr Vincent Paul, praised Prof. Barde for his commitment to addressing critical issues affecting business development in Nigeria.
The event was attended by university management, staff, students, family members, and well-wishers of the scholar.
