‘FG Won’t Condone Abuse Of AI To Undermine National Security’
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has stressed the commitment of the Federal Government to the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve the economy.
He, however, warned that the government would not condone any form of abuse that will affect national security.
Kalu made the disclosure during a courtesy visit by a delegation from Meta Platforms Inc. (formerly Facebook), led by the Vice President (Africa, Middle East & Turkey), Mr Kojo Boakye, and the Director, West Africa, Ms Adaora Ikenze, Wednesday.
Meta is an American multinational technology conglomerate that owns and operates Facebook, Instagram, Threads and WhatsApp, among other products and services.
Chief Press Secretary to the deputy speaker, Levinus Nwabughiogu, quoted Kalu as appraising Meta’s contributions to Nigeria’s digital economy, noting the company’s significant investments in Nigeria, particularly in the area of fibre optic cables, mobile partnerships, and business capacity support for entrepreneurs and SMEs.
He noted that the news of the 45,000km Africa subsea cable landing in Lagos and Akwa Ibom states is particularly exciting, given its potential socio-economic impact on the country.
He said: “I heard you mention things about AI. I’m happy that the government of President Bola Tinubu chose technology as one of the areas that will help this administration to advance towards achieving its set national objectives.
“So, we understand the relevance of AI and we appreciate your interest in our national artificial intelligence strategy. As a government, we are committed to fostering innovation and responsible use of AI.
“It could be abused. We look forward to engaging with stakeholders like you to ensure that our own AI strategy aligns fully with global best practices, and serves the interests of both technology companies and the public.”
Speaking about the proposed digital rights bills, Kalu sought the collaboration of Meta in the protection of digital rights.
He also hinted that by January next year, his office will be convening a sectoral policy dialogue in collaboration with advocacy for Civic Engagement Center focusing on information technology and innovation.
While seeking the support of Meta, Kalu added that the regulatory laws espoused by the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria Act (ARCON, 2022) are not meant to punish anybody but to clean up the space to avoid abuse.
Earlier, leader of the delegation, Boakye informed the Deputy Speaker of their intention to initiate some digital expansion in Africa, which will also benefit Nigeria.
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