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UNESCO’s Readiness Assessment Methodology Launched to Promote Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria
UNESCO’s Readiness Assessment Methodology Launched to Promote Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria
By: Michael Mike
Nigeria’s plan to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) took a great leap with the official launch of UNESCO’s Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) in the country.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja, the Head of Abuja Office and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Representative to Nigeria, Mr. Abdourahamane Diallo said the event signifies a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s journey towards embracing ethical artificial intelligence practices.
Diallo said: “As we gather here at the UN House, we are reminded of the transformative potential of AI in driving innovation and sustainable development across our nation. UNESCO’s Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) stands as a beacon of guidance, ensuring that our advancements in AI are not only groundbreaking but also aligned with global standards of ethics and responsibility.
“We are particularly proud that Nigeria is joining us as part of UNESCO’s custodial role in promoting the ethics of AI worldwide. UNESCO’s Recommendations on the Ethics of AI, adopted by 193 countries, provide a robust framework for the responsible and ethical development and deployment of AI technologies. These recommendations emphasize human rights, fairness, transparency, and accountability, and it is heartening to see Nigeria committing to these principles as we work together to build an inclusive and ethical AI ecosystem.”
He added that: “As we gather here today, we are reminded of the profound impact that artificial intelligence has on our society. AI permeates many aspects of our daily lives, and its ethical implications have become a focal point for all actors within the ecosystem. Recognizing this, in 2023, UNESCO launched the Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) as a pivotal tool for implementing its Recommendation on the Ethics of AI, which was adopted by 193 countries in 2021.
“The RAM, with its comprehensive framework consisting of five dimensions, serves as a vital instrument for assessing a country’s readiness to implement AI ethically and responsibly. It highlights strengths and identifies infrastructural, institutional, and regulatory gaps, enabling nations to address these challenges effectively and create an ethical AI ecosystem.”
On his part, the Secretary General, National Commission for UNESCO (NATCOM-UNESCO), Dr. Idowu Olagunju said: “I firmly believe that today’s discussions will pave the way for significant advancements in our national AI strategy, aligning with UNESCO’s global mission of promoting ethical AI.”
He asked: “Let us embark on this journey together, as we work towards a future where AI is harnessed for the greater good, in alignment with our shared values and ethical principles.”
Speaking to journalists after inaugurating the Steering and Technical Working Committees and Launching the Project, the Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy: Dr Bosun Tijani expressed the country’s readiness to take advantage of the value addition of AI, noting that the youths have already been sensitized and mobilized to evolve the use of AI
He appreciated the support from UNESCO to ensure that AI is ethically embraced, noting that the government is working on making the country one of the top countries in Artificial Intelligence.
He noted that with the diversity of the committees constituted for the AI project, Nigeria is on an interesting ride to the very top.
UNESCO’s Readiness Assessment Methodology Launched to Promote Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria
Bandits kill hunters’ leader in Benue
By: Zagazola Makama
Suspected bandits have killed the leader of hunters in Tine Nune community, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue.
Zagazola learnt that the incident, which occurred on Tuesday evening, happened while the victim, identified as Hilenen Terzungwe, was on patrol with five others along Biriji village.
Terzungwe sustained severe machete cuts during the attack and was rushed to a medical facility in Tine Nune, where he later died while receiving treatment.
His remains have since been deposited at the General Hospital, Zaki-Biam.
Security has been strengthened in the area to forestall further attacks, while investigations into the incident are ongoing.
End
Security forces move to avert reprisal after killing of herdsman in Benue
By: Zagazola Makama
Security forces have intensified patrols and peace-building efforts in Anyiatse village, Jato-Aka, Kwande Local Government Area of Benue, following the killing of a Fulani herdsman by suspected youths of the community.
Zagazola learnt that the incident, which occurred on Tuesday night, has heightened fears of a reprisal attack by Fulani groups in the area.
Sources said the herdsman was attacked and killed in the bush, sparking tension among residents and neighbouring communities.
In response, security personnel were deployed to the area to forestall further violence, while traditional rulers and stakeholders have been engaged in dialogue to restore calm.
The measures, according to local authorities, are aimed at preventing a breakdown of law and order as investigations into the killing continue
End.
Gunmen kill five, burn houses in Mangu LGA, Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Gunmen suspected to be Fulani militias have killed five persons and burnt 10 houses in Tim village, Chakfem District of Mangu Local Government Area, Plateau.
Zagazola Makama report that the attack, which occurred on Tuesday at about 4 p.m., saw the assailants storm the community, shooting sporadically before setting thatched houses ablaze.
Local sources said the victims’ corpses had been evacuated for burial, while the injured were receiving treatment in nearby health facilities.
Community members disclosed that the assault might have been carried out in retaliation for cattle allegedly rustled in the area.
Troops of the Special Task Force (STF) were deployed to the scene and engaged the attackers in a firefight, forcing them to flee, with some believed to have sustained bullet wounds.
Residents said calm had returned to the area on Wednesday, though the village remains tense as investigations continue and efforts are being made to apprehend those behind the attack.
End
Bandits kill hunters’ leader in Benue
Security forces move to avert reprisal after killing of herdsman in Benue
Gunmen kill five, burn houses in Mangu LGA, Plateau
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