This study investigated the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI)- Natural Language Processing (NLP) tools in enhancing English Language Lecturers’ professional development in Universities in Southeastern Nigeria. The study examined how the tool like Grammarly contributes to lecturers' teaching methodologies, linguistic proficiency, and digital literacy. The study Adopted a descriptive survey design, used mean and standard deviation for data analysis and t-test in testing the null hypotheses. Data was collected from hundred (100) English language lecturers using a structured questionnaire. The study collected data from only English language lecturers in the five federal universities in southeast. The instrument was validated by the experts. The reliability was ascertained using Cronbach Alpha at 0.71. Findings revealed that while awareness and usage of AI-NLP tools are growing, challenges such as inadequate training and limited accessibility hinder their full adoption, AI-NLP tools are perceived as beneficial for enhancing lecturers' professional development, especially in improving writing skills. Grammarly is viewed as highly effective in supporting professional development through error detection and language refinement. The study highlighted the transformative role of AI-NLP tools in providing personalized feedback, improving curriculum design, and fostering innovative teaching practices. However, infrastructural constraints and the need for institutional support remained critical barriers. Recommendations include the development of structured training programs, increased access to digital tools, and policy reforms to integrate AI-NLP into professional development initiatives. This research underscores the significance of leveraging AI technologies to advance English language education and bridge existing gaps in lecturers' professional growth within the Nigerian educational context.