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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
200 vigilantes deployed from Nasarawa to bolster security in Ibbi, Niger state
By: Zagazola Makama
About 200 vigilante men from Nasarawa State have arrived in Ibbi, Niger State, to support local security agencies in maintaining law and order, the Niger State Police reported.
The vigilante were deployed at about 4:18 p.m. on Feb. 8 that the vigilantes were deployed in compliance with directives from the Executive Governor of Niger State.
The arrival of the additional security personnel aims to strengthen joint operations with local vigilantes and police to manage security challenges in Ibbi and its environs.
Monitoring of the situation is ongoing, and further developments will be communicated.
200 vigilantes deployed from Nasarawa to bolster security in Ibbi, Niger state
Two killed, one injured in IED explosion in Chikuba in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
Two persons were killed and another injured following the explosion of an improvised explosive device (IED) along Kudodo–Kampani Community Road.
Zagazola learnt that the incident occurred on Feb. 7 at about 7:30 p.m., when three men – Haruna, 40; Ishayaku, 36; and Sunday Joshua, 35, all of Chikuba village – riding a motorcycle ran into the device, triggering the explosion.
Haruna and Ishayaku died on the spot, while Sunday Joshua sustained injuries and was rushed to Shekwoiyha Divine Primary Health Care Center, Erena, for treatment.
The scene was visited by police, and the case has been referred to the Bomb Disposal Unit for further investigation and necessary action.
Two killed, one injured in IED explosion in Chikuba in Niger
Father attacks daughters in home, victims hospitalized in Ekiti
By: Zagazola Makama
Two young girls were injured in an attempted murder at their home on Olele Street, Ise Ekiti, after being attacked by their father early on Thursday morning.
It was gathered that Boluwatife Jegede, 15, and her younger sister, Ife Jegede, 10, were asleep in their room when their father, Akinwumi Jegede, 60, allegedly brought out a knife and inflicted a wound on Boluwatife’s neck.
Ife also sustained an injury on the right side of her face. According to the report, there was no prior disagreement in the household before the attack.
Upon receiving the report, police visited the scene and the victims were immediately rushed to St. John and Mary Hospital, Ise Ekiti, where they are receiving treatment. The suspect reportedly fled the scene and is currently at large.
The State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) is investigating the incident, and efforts are ongoing to arrest the father.
Father attacks daughters in home, victims hospitalized in Ekiti
200 vigilantes deployed from Nasarawa to bolster security in Ibbi, Niger state
Security forces in Niger rescue three kidnapped victims in Mashegu LGAz
Two killed, one injured in IED explosion in Chikuba in Niger
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