<![CDATA[Abstract Technology has taken over the 21st century in order of evolving intelligence and practice. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming global education, yet limited empirical research has examined its influence within Nigerian teacher-training institutions. This study investigates the impact of AI tool usage on academic performance among. A quantitative survey design was employed, involving 480 distributed questionnaires, of which 412 valid responses were returned, yielding an 89.96% response rate. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and moderation analysis. Findings reveal a remarkably high AI adoption rate of 84.95%, with ChatGPT as the most widely used tool (66.1%). AI usage demonstrated significant positive correlations with key academic performance indicators, particularly research project outcomes (r = 0.378, p < 0.01). Regression results show that AI self-efficacy (β = 0.298, p < 0.001) is the strongest predictor of academic performance, followed by usage frequency (β = 0.189, p < 0.001) and digital literacy (β = 0.156, p = 0.001), collectively explaining 38.7% of the variance (Adjusted R² = 0.379). Digital literacy, academic level, and gender significantly moderated the AI-performance relationship. The study concludes that AI tools, when used confidently and effectively, enhance literacy level and support research-driven learning. Strengthening AI literacy, improving digital infrastructure, and establishing ethical guidelines are recommended to maximize benefits and ensure equitable access in Nigerian teacher education.]]>
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