Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has raised a crucial concern regarding the regulation of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics. Speaking at the 2022/2023 Convocation Ceremony of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies – University of Benin, Tajudeen emphasized the importance of having a comprehensive regulatory framework in place.
While acknowledging the numerous benefits that these technologies bring, Tajudeen highlighted the need to prevent their misuse and abuse. By sponsoring a bill aimed at regulating emerging technologies, the speaker aims to secure their responsible development and use in Nigeria.
The education sector in Nigeria faces various challenges, including low enrollment rates, outdated curriculum, insufficient infrastructure, and gender disparities. These problems have been further exacerbated by insecurity and the COVID-19 pandemic. Tajudeen emphasized President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to revitalizing the education sector and aligning it with contemporary challenges.
Acknowledging the transformative potential of AI in education, Tajudeen stressed the importance of integrating AI to enhance teaching and learning processes. However, he cautioned that while AI presents opportunities, it also comes with risks. Biases in datasets and algorithms, job displacement, and the rise of deep fakes are pressing concerns that need to be addressed through regulation.
In recognition of the opportunities and threats posed by AI, the 10th House of Representatives plans to engage with stakeholders and experts to harness its potential and effectively address issues of privacy, accountability, ethics, security, and intellectual property.
By introducing a bill to regulate AI, Tajudeen aims to ensure the responsible development and utilization of this innovative technology, making Nigeria one of the pioneering countries in Africa to undertake such an effort. This landmark initiative will not only safeguard the interests of individuals and brands but also contribute to a more secure digital future for the nation.
FAQ
Why is the regulation of emerging technologies necessary?
The regulation of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Robotics is necessary to prevent their misuse and abuse. It ensures that these technologies are developed and utilized responsibly, safeguarding the interests of individuals and brands.
What challenges does the education sector in Nigeria face?
The education sector in Nigeria faces challenges such as low enrollment rates, outdated curriculum, insufficient infrastructure, and gender disparities. These problems have been further exacerbated by insecurity and the COVID-19 pandemic.
What are the benefits and risks of integrating AI into education?
Integrating AI into education presents a transformative shift in teaching and learning processes. It has the potential to customize learning, enhance educational tools, and improve administrative systems. However, there are risks, including biases in datasets and algorithms, job displacement, and the rise of deep fakes.
What will be the focus of the regulatory efforts?
The regulatory efforts will focus on addressing issues of privacy, accountability, ethics, security, and intellectual property in the development and utilization of AI and other emerging technologies.
What is the aim of introducing a bill to regulate AI?
By introducing a bill to regulate AI, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen aims to ensure the responsible development and utilization of this innovative technology in Nigeria. This initiative will establish Nigeria as one of the pioneering countries in Africa to undertake such an effort.