Abstract This paper examines the challenges of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in basic education with a particular focus on its application in Nigeria. It discusses the potential benefits of AI in enhancing teacher-learner interactions, personalizing learning experiences, and improving access to quality education. The paper also identifies key challenges to the integration of AI in basic education, such as lack of skilled professionals and low digital literacy among basic education teachers, cultural adaptation and traditional resistance, inadequate infrastructure, high cost of implementation and shortage of instructional materials, equity and accessibility challenges, lack of localized content, absence of capacity training programme and limited government support and policy framework. This is an analytic position paper. Through an analysis of secondary data gathered from various print and online sources, the paper emphasizes the need for addressing these challenges in order to effectively implement AI at basic education level in Nigeria. It recommends that future research focus on developing AI-powered educational tools tailored to local contexts and evaluating their impact. Additionally, the paper advocates for increased government funding for AI programs in basic education institutions, along with the establishment of monitoring mechanisms to ensure proper allocation and utilization of funds. In conclusion, the paper asserts that while AI holds the potential to revolutionize basic education in Nigeria, its successful integration will depend on thoughtful planning, implementation, and ongoing evaluation. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence and Basic Education