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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
News
Bandits kill seven Zamfara Community Protection Guards, cart away firearms

Bandits kill seven Zamfara Community Protection Guards, cart away firearms
By: Zagazola Makama
Armed bandits have killed five members of the Community Protection Guard (CPG) and two civilians in a deadly attack in Jangebe town, Talata Mafara Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the attack occurred on Friday afternoon when five CPG personnel, including their Unit Commander, went to assist in cultivating a farm on the outskirts of the village.
The victims were ambushed by the assailants while working on the farm and all five CPG members were shot dead. Two other civilians – a male and a female – working on a nearby farm were also killed during the assault.
Security sources said two pump-action rifles belonging to the CPG were stolen by the attackers.
Security forces have launched a manhunt for the fleeing bandits and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Bandits kill seven Zamfara Community Protection Guards, cart away firearms
News
Troops foil suspected bandit attack, intercept surveillance drone in Katsina

Troops foil suspected bandit attack, intercept surveillance drone in Katsina
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nigerian Army troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA have foiled a suspected banditry attack on military camps located around Sabuwa and Faskari Local Government Areas, and intercepted an unidentified surveillance drone suspected to have been deployed by the criminals.
Zagazola Makama gathered that the incident occurred at about 10:25 p.m. on Wednesday, July 17, when armed men on motorcycles were sighted moving suspiciously around Maiganguma village axis in the two LGAs.
According to security sources, a drone was simultaneously observed hovering over the general area of Dandume and Machika villages, particularly around the perimeters of the Operation Sharan Daji Camp and Machika Military Super Camp.
Troops stationed in the vicinity reportedly made inquiries across security formations to confirm whether the drone belonged to any friendly forces. All units, however, denied ownership or deployment of any drone in the area.
After a few minutes, the drone was seen maneuvering behind the Wori Rock and later re-emerged in the air, prompting patrol teams to open fire. The suspected operator reportedly flew the drone back towards Wori Rock, after which it vanished.
Troops gave chase to the motorcycle-riding suspects who fled into the bush, evading capture. No casualty was reported during the incident.
Security authorities said investigations were ongoing to identify the drone operators and uncover any surveillance or targeting plans linked to the suspected bandits.
Troops foil suspected bandit attack, intercept surveillance drone in Katsina
News
Bandits rustle cattle, injure two in Katsina; ambush police, damage patrol APC

Bandits rustle cattle, injure two in Katsina; ambush police, damage patrol APC
By: Zagazola Makama
Armed bandits in the early hours of Friday stormed Unguwar Gada Village in Kafur Local Government Area of Katsina State, rustling an undisclosed number of cattle and injuring two villagers in the process.
Zagazola Makama gathered that the attackers, who struck at about 12:45 a.m., fled with the stolen livestock through Rereji Village in neighbouring Malumfashi LGA.
During the raid, the assailants shot two residents identified as Sani Yau, and Umar Shamsu, both of whom sustained gunshot injuries and were rushed to the General Hospital in Malumfashi for medical attention.
Police personnel and other joint forces respond to the incident. However, the bandits laid an ambush for the security operatives and opened fire on them.
In the course of the attack, the front tyres of the police Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) were destroyed, and its engine also sustained significant damage, rendering the vehicle immobile.
Security forces have intensified patrols in the area and launched a manhunt for the perpetrators.
Bandits rustle cattle, injure two in Katsina; ambush police, damage patrol APC
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