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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
Troops neutralise eight terrorists in failed ambush operation in Borno
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of 21 Special Armoured Brigade (21 SAB), in collaboration with Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and hybrid forces, have neutralised eight suspected terrorists during an ambush operation in Bama Local Government Area of Borno.
A military source told Zagazola Makama that the operation was carried out at about 2:06 a.m. on April 1 around the Gadangari axis, behind Government Girls Secondary School (GGSS), Bama.
The source said the troops conducted a planned ambush targeting suspected Boko Haram terrorists and their logistics collaborators operating around the area.
“While lying in wait, the troops intercepted terrorists’ collaborators and logistics suppliers moving towards Yale axis,” the source said.
He added that the troops engaged the targets in a brief exchange of fire, resulting in the neutralisation of eight terrorists, while others escaped with possible gunshot wounds.
The source further noted that follow-up operations were ongoing to track fleeing elements and dismantle their logistics networks in the area.
He assured that the situation remained under control, with troops maintaining aggressive posture in the general area.
Troops neutralise eight terrorists in failed ambush operation in Borno
Troops rescue two teenage boys escaping suspected terrorist camp in Borno
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of 25 Brigade, operating from Forward Operating Base (FOB) Azir in Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State, have rescued two teenage boys who reportedly escaped from a suspected terrorist camp in Dusula.
A military source told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred at about 10:00 a.m. on April 1 after the village head of Azir alerted troops to the arrival of two minors in the community under suspicious circumstances.
The source said troops immediately mobilised to the village and apprehended the boys, who were later taken to the Forward Operating Base for interrogation.
He identified the teenagers as Abuna Yammadu Kala, 15, and Abulkaka Yammadu Kala, 10.
According to preliminary interrogation, the boys reportedly disclosed that they recently escaped from a suspected terrorist camp located in Dusula.
The source said the children stated that they fled the camp due to harsh conditions and fear for their lives.
He added that the minors have been moved for profiling and further necessary action.
Troops rescue two teenage boys escaping suspected terrorist camp in Borno
Troops arrest three suspected terrorists in Adamawa, foil alleged attack plan on Mubi barracks
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of 232 Battalion (Tactical), in collaboration with professional hunters, have arrested three suspected terrorists during a cordon-and-search operation in Mubi North Local Government Area of Adamawa State.
A military source told Zagazola Makama that the operation was conducted at about 1:15 a.m. on April 1 in Angwan Rami general area based on credible human intelligence on terrorist activities.
The source said the troops apprehended three suspects identified as Ado John, 27; Umaru Yunusa, 22; and Alhaji Saleh Mamman Ibrahim, 44.
He added that preliminary investigation confirmed the suspects to be members of terrorist elements operating in the area.
According to him, one of the suspects, Alhaji Saleh Mamman Ibrahim, who was previously documented as a repentant terrorist, allegedly confessed to participating in the attack on Ngoshe in Borno State.
The source further disclosed that the suspect also admitted to acting as a double agent and allegedly planning an attack on Mubi barracks with the intention of carting away weapons.
He said the suspects are currently in the custody of 232 Battalion for further investigation and intelligence exploitation.
He reaffirmed the commitment of security forces to sustain ongoing operations aimed at denying terrorists freedom of action in the North-East.
Troops arrest three suspected terrorists in Adamawa, foil alleged attack plan on Mubi barracks
Troops neutralise eight terrorists in failed ambush operation in Borno
Troops rescue two teenage boys escaping suspected terrorist camp in Borno
Troops arrest three suspected terrorists in Adamawa, foil alleged attack plan on Mubi barracks
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