Use of AI should be regulated in Nigeria – NRCA to Govt
Naija News • 1h ago
Title: Regulating AI in Nigeria: A Call to Action
In the midst of rapid technological advancements, Nigeria is at a crossroads. As Artificial Intelligence (AI) increasingly becomes part of our daily lives, there's a growing concern about its unbridled growth. The Nigeria Religious Coalition on Artificial Intelligence (NRCA) has sounded a warning bell, urging the government to regulate AI use in the country.
During a recent training for journalists on AI ethics, NRCA partnered with the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) and Jama'atu Nasril Islam (JNI) to emphasize the need for responsible AI use. According to NRCA, AI has the potential to ease daily activities, but it can also cause significant harm if left unchecked. This is a wake-up call for Nigerians, particularly those in positions of power, to take a closer look at how AI is shaping our society.
From a human perspective, AI should serve humanity's common good. Rt. Rev. Evans Onyemara, General Secretary of CCN, posits that humans should control AI to ensure orderliness in the universe. He argues that humans should deploy AI in ways that enhance existence, rather than causing harm. This is a sensible approach, considering the far-reaching implications of unregulated AI.
Islamic scholars also weigh in on the debate, emphasizing the importance of accountability and mercy in AI use. Mallam Yusuf Ahmed Bida, Administrative Secretary of JNI, emphasizes the need for sincerity, non-harmfulness, and a sense of accountability when deploying AI. He reminds us that we'll be answerable for our actions on the Day of Judgment, making AI use a moral imperative.
The NRCA's call to action has significant implications for Nigeria's tech landscape. With AI increasingly integrated into various sectors, regulation will be crucial in preventing its misuse. It's a delicate balancing act, as regulation must be comprehensive enough to address concerns without stifling innovation. By taking a proactive stance, the government can ensure that AI benefits Nigerians, rather than causing harm. It's time for Nigeria to take the reins and shape the future of AI, rather than being at the mercy of unchecked technological advancements.