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Tag: Artificial intelligence

  • How Nigeria can integrate Artificial Intelligence into Education sector, by expert 

    How Nigeria can integrate Artificial Intelligence into Education sector, by expert 

    International educator and lawyer, Jacob Sule has explained how Nigeria can integrate Artificial Intelligence into the country’s education sector.

    Sule applauded the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy and the U.S. Department of State for organizing the “Global Inclusivity and AI: Africa” conference in Lagos State, Nigeria.

    The conference allowed participants to discuss the deployment and use of AI and how to strategically incorporate and harmonize AI governance strategies between the United States and African nations.

    In his submission, Sule emphasised that: “Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing industries worldwide and is now fully integrated into education. In Nigeria, where the education sector faces numerous challenges, such as inadequate infrastructure, lack of qualified teachers, and inconsistent access to learning resources, AI has the potential to bridge significant gaps. 

    “By integrating AI into education, Nigeria can enhance teaching, improve learning outcomes, and provide students with personalized educational experiences. However, successful integration requires careful planning, infrastructure investment, and policy support.

    Read Also; Will Artificial Intelligence replace jobs?

    “AI comes with numerous opportunities for the educational system in Nigeria. It could help students create personalized learning outcomes. The Integration of AI can provide students with individualized learning paths based on their abilities, learning styles, and progress. 

    “This is particularly important in Nigeria, where classrooms are often overcrowded, and teachers may struggle to cater to each student’s unique needs. AI-powered platforms, such as intelligent tutoring systems, can adapt content, provide real-time feedback, and suggest additional learning materials to enhance student comprehension. 

    “AI can enable the creation of advanced e-learning platforms that simulate classroom experiences. For students in remote or underserved areas, this can provide access to quality education even with few qualified teachers. AI can facilitate virtual classrooms, interactive discussions, and automated assessments, allowing students to learn from anywhere.

    “AI can streamline administrative processes such as grading, attendance tracking, and scheduling. This can free up teachers’ time, allowing them to focus more on actual teaching. For example, AI systems can quickly assess student assignments, detect patterns in student performance, and generate reports that can help teachers identify areas where students may need additional support. 

    Sule who is the Executive Director of the iRead To Live Initiative, emphasised that AI can empower teachers with tools for lesson planning, content delivery, and student assessment. 

    He said: “Platforms using natural language processing and machine learning can analyze vast amounts of educational content and present it in ways that enhance teaching efficiency. In turn, this allows teachers to focus on interacting with students rather than spending excessive time on preparation.

    “Although Nigeria faces a shortage of qualified teachers, particularly in STEM fields, AI-based teaching tools, such as virtual teaching assistants and chatbots, can supplement teaching in subjects needing more expertise. This can help fill the gap in STEM education and ensure students receive the instruction they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving job market. 

    “AI systems can analyze vast amounts of educational data to provide insights into student performance, teaching effectiveness, and institutional efficiency. For education policymakers in Nigeria, this data can help make informed decisions about curriculum improvements, resource allocation, and interventions to boost educational outcomes.

    “While the potential of AI in Nigeria’s education sector is immense, several challenges must be urgently addressed. Many Nigerian schools, particularly rural ones, lack basic digital infrastructure such as internet connectivity, electricity, and computers. The successful implementation of AI will require significant investments in infrastructure. 

    “Teachers and students must be digitally literate to benefit from AI-based educational tools. Comprehensive training programs will be necessary to equip educators with the skills needed to integrate AI into their teaching practices. 

    “AI tools and systems are often expensive to implement and maintain. Acquiring and sustaining AI technology may be prohibitive for schools in underfunded regions without government support or public-private partnerships. As with any technology, there are ethical concerns around AI, such as privacy, data security, and the risk of bias in AI systems. Ensuring that AI applications are used responsibly, with clear regulations and oversight, is essential to preventing potential misuse.

    “The Government of Nigeria at the Federal, State, and Local levels has critical roles in integrating AI into education. The Nigerian government must prioritize AI integration in education through policy frameworks encouraging innovation, collaboration with tech companies, and investment in digital infrastructure. 

    Leveraging on his experience as a doctoral student in higher education administration at George Washington University in Washington, DC, United States, Sule said the government can partner with private tech firms to provide schools with the tools and resources to adopt AI-based solutions. 

    He said: “Teachers must be trained in using AI tools effectively. Professional development programs focusing on digital literacy, AI applications, and pedagogical innovation will ensure that educators can harness AI to improve teaching and learning outcomes.

    “Collaborating with technology firms, AI startups, and international organizations can provide the expertise, funding, and infrastructure necessary to implement AI in Nigerian education. These partnerships can also facilitate the development of localized AI solutions tailored to the unique challenges of the Nigerian education system. 

    “AI integration should prioritize access for underserved communities, including rural schools and marginalized students. Programs should be developed to ensure that all students, regardless of socioeconomic background, can benefit from AI-enhanced education. This could include providing affordable digital devices and internet access in underserved areas.

    “The Nigerian government should establish clear guidelines for the ethical use of AI in education. These guidelines must address concerns related to data privacy, transparency, and fairness in AI algorithms, ensuring that the technology is used responsibly and inclusively. Integrating AI into Nigeria’s education system presents a transformative opportunity to improve learning outcomes, enhance teacher effectiveness, and bridge the gaps in access to quality education. 

    “However, realizing this potential will require urgent and strategic investments in infrastructure, teacher training, and digital literacy. By creating supportive policies, fostering partnerships, and ensuring ethical AI use, Nigeria can leverage AI to build a more equitable and efficient education system for the future.”

  • Nigeria needs Artificial Intelligence to drive prosperity, says Minister

    Nigeria needs Artificial Intelligence to drive prosperity, says Minister

    The Minister of Communications, Innovations and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, on September 9, said on Monday that the federal government would put all necessary mechanisms and infrastructures in place for the deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to drive prosperity in the country.

    Tijani said the present administration is prioritising digital services in the public sector to make the adoption of Artificial Intelligence seamless to improve productivity and boost the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

    “If we, first of all, get it right in the public sector, it will permeate the private sector, and with time the adoption and deployment of AI would not only transform our national lives but would shape the future of things in our country.

    “We are here not for policy review, but to engage in conversation about the strategy necessary for the adoption and deployment of Artificial Intelligence. Artificial Intelligence has always been with us. However, our focus is that we want it to drive prosperity in Nigeria.

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    “We don’t want to adopt the top-to-bottom approach, but the bottom-to-top approach. Thereafter, the policy to drive its adoption and deployment would be crafted to the benefit of all,” Dr Tijani said.

    The minister made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the Stakeholders Engagement on National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (NAIS) organized by his Ministry in conjunction with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and Microsoft at the Galaxy Backbone Complex, Abuja.

    He said Nigeria must find ways to put AI to use to solve its socio-economic challenges, stating that democratising AI deployment would impact positively on the growth and development of the country.

    The Minister commended Microsoft, the World Bank, and other critical stakeholders for their commitment to the seamless adoption and deployment of Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria, saying that he looks forward to a time when his children would ask him about his contributions to the adoption of AI in Nigeria and he would have some concrete things to show them.

    The Director General of NITDA, Malam Kashifu Inuwa in his remarks said the gathering aimed at consolidating the spirit of co-creation adopted by the government to ensure seamless adoption and deployment of Artificial Intelligence.

    Malam Inuwa said since no country in the world wants to be left behind in the adoption of AI, Nigeria needed to make the right decision on what it intends to do with Artificial Intelligence and what it would not do with it.

    “We are adopting a co-creation approach to bridge the gaps between the design and execution of AI policy. We need to socialise the design after co-creation so that all critical stakeholders would not have difficulties in execution.

    “The common man needs Artificial Intelligence to improve his productivity. So inclusivity is part of the strategy. Every Nigerian needs to be digitally visible especially as the country is blessed with a vibrant youth population and talent. This would significantly improve our agriculture, health, education and security amongst others”, Malam Inuwa said.

    The NITDA boss explained that critical issues of infrastructures and data should engage the attention of stakeholders especially how to develop and harness them as the powerhouse of Artificial Intelligence.

    The representative of Microsoft, Mr Roberts Ivanschitz commended the Federal Government for giving his organisation space and voice in the adoption and deployment of Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria.

    He described the government as the Coach, saying the sense of urgency brought to the deployment of Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria was commendable.

    “It is all about learning and understanding the strategy. Nigeria needs to get the infrastructures right and the people prepared for the deployment of Artificial Intelligence because it is the way to go for the future of the African continent.

    “However, I must emphasize that the deployment of Artificial Intelligence must be fair, inclusive, reliable, and safe. It must be transparent. Its deployment must be transparent, especially on unexpected results “, Mr Ivanschitz said.

  • ‘How AI is shaping future finance in Africa’

    ‘How AI is shaping future finance in Africa’

    Long recognised for their globally competitive approach to innovation, African financial services industry (FSI), organisations has continued to demonstrate a willingness to embrace new technologies in a bid to innovate and evolve their offerings.

    Last year, the GSM Association ranked Sub-Saharan Africa as the world leader in mobile banking. Many of these institutions, however, are under more pressure than ever to improve profitability through innovation and productivity gains.

    Future progress will benefit not just the FSI firms, but also their local customers, and contribute to government efforts in expanding financial inclusion, which ultimately bolsters the wider economy. AI is crucial for substantial productivity improvements, and proactive organisations like in the financial sectors are witnessing its transformative effects firsthand.

    AI has opened the door to overnight innovations, opened the door to overnight innovation that has increased productivity across businesses.

    Against the backdrop of recent AI breakthroughs, companies have seen opportunities to transform its operations through the adoption of generative AI and leverage the tool to review their existing code for efficiency and stability.

    A local success story is that of Access Holdings that has evolved over the past 30 years from a small Nigerian bank into a world-class African financial institution, offering banking, insurance, pensions, payments, and lending services. Ultimately servicing more than 56 million customers in multiple different countries, the company was grappling with data management, meeting productivity, and lengthy development timelines.

    Like any leading organisation, a strategic decision was made to select Microsoft 365 Copilot and encourage the entire organisation’s use of AI by integrating the technology with tools that employees are already using on a daily basis.

    By empowering the data science team to quickly extract key insights from mountains of data and enabling developers to dramatically shorten the development lifecycle, Executive Director, IT and Digitalisation at Access Holdings Plc, Lanre Bamisebi, said:

        “Access Holdings aims to adapt quickly to new technology trends, especially those proven to be highly beneficial like generative artificial intelligence (AI) as it enables  us to mainstream sustainable business practices to support our growth.”

    Read Also: Four effects of artificial intelligence on news reportage

    According to her, as is often the case when it comes to early adoption of new technologies, their employees were initially afraid of embracing AI transformation as internal surveys showed that while some employees were generally wary of change, others feared specifically that their jobs might be at risk.

    To help its staff fully embrace the benefits of AI according to Bamisebi, Access Holdings started rolling out the new technology by training its executive directors and general managers to use Copilot. The sessions also served the dual purpose of enabling the company to gather applicable use cases from the participants. “During the sessions, we were amazed that people who didn’t know how to use AI just a couple of hours before could suddenly come up with different ways to incorporate it into their work,” he added.

    He also revealed that in just three months, Access Holdings saw the benefits of Copilot for Microsoft 365 across its operations.

    Rather than writing every line of code from scratch, for example, developers can get an outline of code from Copilot and make edits.

    As one of the leading financial services he said his organization is not only reaping the benefits of AI adoption for its business operations, by delivering faster and more effective services to its customers, while enhancing its internal efficiency and collaboration.

    This in turn drives growth and innovation for the business, as well as the wider African economy. Access Holdings he revealed is proof that AI is not a distant future, but a present reality that can transform the way businesses operate and compete in the global market.

  • Four effects of artificial intelligence on news reportage

    Four effects of artificial intelligence on news reportage

    The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed the way we consume and interact with information, including news reporting.

    While AI offers potential benefits for enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of news dissemination, it also introduces significant risks, particularly in the spread of misinformation and disinformation.

    A major concern is the use of AI to create and distribute false information, often with the intent to deceive or manipulate the public.

    This phenomenon, known as “AI-powered propaganda,” is becoming increasingly prevalent in the digital age. Techniques such as deepfakes, AI-generated text, and bot networks are being employed to produce convincing but false news stories.

    Deepfakes, for example, leverage AI to create realistic videos and audio recordings, making it appear as though individuals are saying or doing things they never did.

    Similarly, AI-generated text can produce fake news articles, social media posts, and other written content designed to mislead the public.

    These methods have been used to spread false information on a wide range of topics, from politics and elections to science and health, posing serious consequences for individuals, communities, and society as a whole.

    Here are some effects of artificial intelligence on news reporting:

    1. Deepfakes

    They are AI-generated videos, audio recordings, or images that are created to deceive or manipulate the public. They use machine learning algorithms to mimic the appearance, voice, or behaviour of an individual, often with alarming accuracy. Deepfakes can be used to, Create fake news stories or propaganda, impersonate public figures or celebrities, fabricate evidence or testimony, and spread disinformation or hoaxes.

    In 2020, Deepfake videos were viewed over 100 million times on social media platforms (Deeptrace Labs).

    2. AI-generated text

    One of the primary effects of Al-generated text is the spread of misinformation and disinformation. Al algorithms can generate convincing but false content, making it challenging to distinguish fact from fiction.

    Read Also: Artificial Intelligence can aid judicial system, says varsity don

    This can lead to the manipulation of public opinion, erosion of trust in institutions, and even influence the outcome of elections.

    According to Gartner, 80% of online content will be generated by Al by 2025.

    3. Bot network

    Bot networks, also known as botnets, refer to a group of compromised computers or devices that are controlled remotely by an attacker, often using malicious software or malware. These botnets can be used for various purposes like, spreading spam and phishing emails, conducting distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, and stealing sensitive information*

    Over 100 million devices are part of botnets worldwide (Kaspersky). Botnets pose significant threats to online security, privacy, and integrity. It’s essential to implement robust security measures, such as firewalls, antivirus software, and regular updates, to prevent device compromise and botnet participation.

    4. Job displacement

    Job displacement refers to the loss of jobs or the replacement of human workers by automated systems, artificial intelligence, or other technological advancements. In the context of AI-generated text, job displacement may occur in industries where writing, editing, or content creation are primary functions 30% of jobs are at high risk of being automated by 2030 (PwC).

    The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed the landscape of news reportage, presenting both opportunities and challenges.Ultimately, the responsible development and deployment of AI in news reportage require a collaborative effort from technologists, journalists, policymakers, and the public to ensure that the benefits of AI are realized while minimizing its risks.

  • Artificial Intelligence can aid judicial system, says varsity don

    Artificial Intelligence can aid judicial system, says varsity don

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been identified as pivotal in the country’s judicial system, considering its role in human rights adjudication.

    Dean Faculty of Law Caleb University, Imota, Lagos, Prof. Foluke Dada-Lawanson, dropped the hint during the presentation of the citadel’s Eighth Inaugural Lecture over the week in its Multipurpose Hall.

    Describing AI as simulation of human intelligence that can rationalise and take actions that have the best chance of achieving a specific goal, said its origination dated back to 1950, when Alan Turing first proposed the idea that machines could think in his publication, “Computing Machinery and Intelligence”.

    The law teacher, who hailed from Ere-Ijesa in Oriade Local Government Area of Osun State, said it can further be defined as an existing network of computer components and connections that mimic human ability to receive, process, reason and communicate information through various media.

    She reiterated that it could search through data to combine information for the production of a specific result through multiple media on an initial request from human operator.

    Prof. Dada-Lawanson classified AI into hardware and software in infrastructure in various combination of each other based on its intended use and scale of application.

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    She disclosed that in human rights adjudication in Nigeria and globally too, there are limitations on the relevance of AI to the judicial system.

    The university don identified these limitations as data, Algorithm, human, feedback loop and deployment. She at the same time added that bias in AI is essential to uphold human rights principles, promoting fairness and equality and in enduring that technologies are deployed responsibly in a manner that respect the dignity and autonomy of individuals.

    The professor, who said she was fulfilled attaining that feat, praised her late father, High Chief Popoola Lawanson, her mother and members of her family, who encouraged her in attaining the goal.

    Others highlights of the events include comments from the dignitaries present at the lecture.

    The Vice Chancellor of Caleb University, Nosa Owens–Iben, congratulated her for attaining the professorial seat. Prof. Gbenga Akingbehin, a Commercial Law lecturer from the University of Lagos, recalled how the new professor delved into academics through his advice.

    Also, the husband of the university don, High Chief Adeyinka David Dada, who recalled his wife’s commitment to attaining the professorial seat, congratulated her for the success.

    Other dignitaries present at the event are her mother, High Chief Elizabeth Adedunmola Lawanson; HRM Oba Augustine Alowolodu, the Elere of Ere-Ijesa; HRM Oba Adamo Ademola, the Onitaji of Itaji –Ekiti; HRM Oba Elegboro of Ijebu-Jesa and High Chief Tise Adenipekun, the Aaro of Ere-Ijesa, who was accompanied by his wife, Yeye Luwa of Ere -Ijesa.

  • Govt to bridge digital gaps with Artificial Intelligence, others

    Govt to bridge digital gaps with Artificial Intelligence, others

    The Federal Government has announced its resolve to bridge digital gaps with the deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Big data and Internet of Things (IoT), among other technological innovations.

    Minister of Communications, Innovations and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, also said the government would adopt modern technologies to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in line with the United Nations programme for developing countries.

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    The minister spoke at the Digital Economy Complex, Mbora, Abuja, during a stakeholders’ workshop preparatory to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) summit coming up in September. The workshop was themed ‘Stakeholders’ Workshop to Review Nigeria’s Statement to the Global Digital Compact (GDC)’.

    Tijani, represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Faruk Yabo, said: “Nigeria would focus on digital transformation and digital revolution which are largely informed by mega trends such as climate change, which many countries are confronted with, including desert encroachment, COVID-19 pandemic, global conflicts and economic meltdown.”

  • Benefits of artificial intelligence in project management

    Benefits of artificial intelligence in project management

    Sir: The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has brought about groundbreaking changes across various industries worldwide, and project management is no exception to this transformation. General Artificial Intelligence (GenAI), which refers to AI systems with the capability to perform any intellectual task that a human can, presents a substantial opportunity for enhancing project management in Nigeria. Its potential has been demonstrated in countries such as the United States and China, where GenAI has effectively enhanced project outcomes. However, leveraging these benefits comes with its own set of challenges that need to be addressed.

    GenAI has the ability to analyze large volumes of data more efficiently and accurately than humans. This provides valuable insights that can improve decision-making processes. In Nigeria, where project delays and budget overruns are common, AI can forecast potential risks and suggest mitigation strategies. For example, AI algorithms can detect patterns in project data, enabling managers to anticipate issues such as resource shortages or scheduling conflicts.

     Automating routine tasks is a key benefit. GenAI can manage repetitive activities like scheduling, reporting, and data entry, allowing human resources to focus on more strategic tasks.

     GenAI can enhance resource allocation by analyzing historical project data and current project needs. This ensures that resources such as labor, materials, and finances are utilized effectively, minimizing waste and boosting productivity. This capability is particularly valuable in a country where resource management is often challenging.

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     AI-driven tools can facilitate better communication and collaboration among project team members. Features such as AI-powered chatbots and collaboration platforms ensure that team members are kept updated in real-time, promoting a more cooperative environment. This is especially beneficial for large projects involving multiple stakeholders across different locations in Nigeria.

    Adopting GenAI in Nigeria presents several challenges that need to be addressed for successful implementation. The adoption of GenAI in Nigeria is hindered by the need for robust infrastructure and reliable internet connectivity. AI systems require significant computing power and stable internet connections to function effectively. While urban areas may have better infrastructure, rural regions often face connectivity issues, limiting the widespread adoption of AI.

    Implementing GenAI requires a skilled workforce in AI technologies, which is currently in short supply in Nigeria. To address this, the country needs to invest in education and training to build a pool of AI talent. Partnerships between the government, educational institutions, and the private sector can help bridge this skill gap by developing relevant curricula and training programs.

    AI systems depend on large datasets to function effectively. However, data privacy and security concerns can hinder AI adoption. In Nigeria, clear regulations and frameworks are needed to ensure that data is collected, stored, and used responsibly. This includes protecting sensitive information and ensuring compliance with data protection laws.

    The initial cost of implementing AI technologies can be high, which may deter some organizations from adopting GenAI. Additionally, there are potential risks associated with AI, such as the need for continuous updates and maintenance, and the possibility of AI systems making errors. While the long-term benefits of AI can outweigh these initial costs and risks, securing the necessary investment and preparing for these challenges can be challenging, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria.

    To fully exploit the potential of GenAI, it is imperative for stakeholders to collaborate in establishing the essential infrastructure, nurturing AI talent, and implementing robust data governance frameworks. Through these efforts, Nigeria has the opportunity to position itself as a frontrunner in AI-powered project management, paving the way for a more effective and innovative future. This highlights the significance of each stakeholder’s role and their capacity to influence the future of project management in Nigeria.

    •Oghenekevwe Kofi, kevwekofi@gmail.com

  • Will Artificial Intelligence replace jobs?

    Will Artificial Intelligence replace jobs?

    SIR: A common concern in the debate about artificial intelligence (AI) and employment is that AI will replace human jobs. While some jobs are at risk, this perspective misses a more nuanced reality: AI won’t take your job, but a good AI user might. AI is a tool that, when effectively used, can enhance productivity and reshape job landscapes rather than replace them.

    AI is designed to augment human abilities, not to replace them. Its strength lies in quickly processing large amounts of data, finding patterns, and automating repetitive tasks. For instance, AI can analyse medical imaging data faster than a radiologist, but it cannot replace a doctor’s diagnostic skills and empathy. In finance, AI can detect fraudulent transactions or predict market trends, but it cannot replace the strategic thinking of financial analysts.

    Consider spreadsheets introduced in the 1980s. They didn’t eliminate the need for accountants but changed how they worked. Similarly, AI can automate mundane tasks, freeing professionals to focus on complex activities. For example, AI-driven chatbots handle routine customer inquiries, allowing human representatives to tackle more complicated issues requiring a personal touch.

    Those who embrace AI as a tool are set to become the professionals of the future. An “AI-enhanced” professional understands how to use AI to streamline processes, analyse data efficiently, and generate insights for decision-making. They use AI to complement their expertise, enabling them to achieve more than they could alone.

    Take data analysis, for example. Traditional analysts might spend hours going through spreadsheets to find trends. An AI-enhanced analyst uses machine learning algorithms to process and visualize data quickly, identifying patterns that are time-consuming to detect manually. This not only increases productivity but also provides a competitive edge in making faster and better decisions.

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    In marketing, professionals using AI can analyse consumer behaviour and campaign performance more effectively. AI tools can segment audiences, personalize content, and predict buying behaviours. Marketers who use these tools deliver more targeted campaigns, improving returns on investment and outperforming those who use traditional methods.

    To stay competitive in an AI-driven job market, individuals must adapt and upskill. This involves understanding AI basics and integrating AI tools into workflows. Many organizations offer training programs to help employees transition to AI-enhanced roles, recognizing the need to upskill their workforce to stay competitive. Companies are investing in AI literacy programs to help employees understand AI and its applications. Online platforms like Coursera and edX offer courses in AI and machine learning, making it easier to gain relevant skills. The demand for roles like data scientists, AI specialists, and AI product managers is growing, and those who acquire these skills are well-positioned for future opportunities.

    AI can perform many tasks, but human intuition, creativity, and empathy are invaluable. AI excels in data processing and analysis, but humans bring context, ethics, and understanding of human needs and emotions. Successful AI applications involve a relationship where AI handles data-heavy tasks, and humans use their judgment to make decisions. In journalism, for instance, AI can help generate data-driven reports, but journalists provide context, conduct investigations, and ensure ethical standards. In design, AI tools suggest elements based on user preferences, but the creative vision and emotional impact come from human designers.

    Fears that AI will take jobs are often exaggerated. The real challenge is adapting to a new landscape where AI enhances roles instead of replacing them. The competitive edge will belong to those who use AI effectively, making them more valuable in the job market. By embracing AI and upskilling, professionals can harness its power to innovate and excel in their careers. AI should be seen as a powerful ally that augments human abilities, allowing individuals to focus on what they do best: thinking creatively, solving complex problems, and connecting with others on a human level.

    • Samuel Jekeli, Centre for Social Justice, Abuja.
  • Artificial Intelligence, climate change and the future

    Artificial Intelligence, climate change and the future

    SIR: The intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and climate change is becoming a critical field in the continuous effort to achieve a sustainable future. As we tackle the difficulties of solving global warming and its destructive consequences, AI emerges as a formidable ally, offering innovative solutions and huge possibilities for change.

    However, tackling climate change presents a multitude of difficulties and moral debates. We must approach this convergence with the highest level of prudence, ensuring that we effectively utilise the promise of AI while being watchful for any unanticipated consequences.

    The core of this collaboration revolves around the capacity of AI to revolutionize climate models and forecasting. To learn more about how Earth’s climate system works, climate experts rely on large records and complex models. With its amazing power to look at huge amounts of data and find complex trends, artificial intelligence has the potential to make climate models much more accurate and useful. Artificial intelligence models can make more accurate predictions of bad weather by using up-to-date data from satellites, weather sites, and other sources. This lets proactive plans be put in place to lessen the effects on vulnerable groups that are more likely to be affected.

    Furthermore, AI has the potential to enhance the efficiency of resource management and conservation endeavors. AI-powered systems can optimize resource allocation, minimize waste, and reduce carbon emissions in many fields such as precision agriculture and smart energy grids. AI algorithms can analyze soil composition, weather patterns, and crop characteristics to optimize irrigation and fertilizer usage, improving agricultural output while reducing environmental damage. AI-powered energy management systems may optimize power generation and distribution by adapting to demand patterns, therefore enhancing efficiency and smoothly incorporating renewable energy sources into the grid.

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    Moreover, AI enables the creation of inventive responses to intricate environmental problems. AI enables researchers and policymakers to develop innovative ways for addressing climate change, ranging from carbon capture devices to sustainable urban planning. AI algorithms may enhance the design of carbon capture and storage plants by determining the most effective sites and configurations to maximize efficiency and minimize expenses. AI-driven simulations can assist urban planners in creating resilient cities that can resist the effects of climate change, such as rising sea levels and high heat events.

    Nevertheless, the incorporation of AI into endeavours to mitigate climate change is not without concerns. As we delegate AI with progressively intricate duties, apprehensions regarding algorithmic bias, transparency, and responsibility become prominent. Biased statistics or faulty algorithms have the potential to worsen existing disparities and marginalise disadvantaged populations, so compromising the efficacy and impartiality of climate measures. In addition, the widespread use of AI technology gives rise to worries over the protection of data privacy and surveillance, as well as the possibility of autonomous AI systems behaving in ways that go against human values and interests.

    Hence, while we utilize the potential of AI to address the fundamental danger of climate change, it is imperative that we give precedence to ethical issues and guarantee that technological progress benefits the common welfare. This requires strong legal frameworks that encourage openness, accountability, and fairness in the development and use of AI technology. Furthermore, it is crucial to have multidisciplinary cooperation among scientists, policymakers, ethicists, and civil society to predict and tackle the socio-economic consequences of AI-powered climate solutions.

    Finally, new possibilities to improve our connection to the earth and create a more sustainable future have never been available before thanks to the coming together of AI and climate change. We can get through this intersection and into a future where people and the environment live in peace if we use AI for good, stick to ethical ideals, and build inclusive governance systems. The choices we make now will have far-reaching consequences for future generations, therefore we must act quickly.

    Tosin Afeniforo,  Italy. &  Peter Oyewole,  USA.

  • AI shaping future of B2B Payments in Africa

    AI shaping future of B2B Payments in Africa

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising industries globally and the landscape of Business-to-Business (B2B) payments in Africa is no exception. As African economies grow and digitalize, AI integration in B2B transactions promises to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, increase speed and security, and foster economic development.

    “AI is poised to transform B2B payments across the continent, driving inclusion down to the underserved and marginalized populations,” said Jegunmah O. Olasubomi, Co-Founder of WallX Africa. “This will give them the opportunity to participate in the formal financial system, improving their economic prospects and reducing poverty.”

    One of the most significant advantages of AI in B2B payments is its ability to streamline payment processes. Traditionally, B2B transactions involve multiple steps and considerable paperwork, leading to delays and inefficiencies. AI-driven systems can automate these processes, reducing the time and effort required to complete transactions.

    “Machine learning algorithms can analyze transaction data to predict the optimal payment times, ensuring that businesses maintain healthy cash flows and avoid late fees or missed payments,” Olasubomi noted.

    Security is a paramount concern in B2B transactions. AI technologies are enhancing security measures by detecting and preventing fraudulent activities more effectively than traditional methods. AI systems can monitor transactions in real-time, identifying patterns that may indicate fraud.

    “By analyzing large datasets, these systems can detect anomalies that human analysts might miss, providing an additional layer of security for businesses,” said Olasubomi.

    Credit risk assessment is crucial for B2B transactions, especially in Africa where access to credit information can be limited. AI can enhance credit risk assessments by analyzing a wide range of data points, including historical transaction data, social media activity, and economic indicators.

    “This allows for more accurate and comprehensive risk profiles, enabling businesses to make informed lending decisions and mitigate potential risks,” Olasubomi explained.

    Africa’s diverse economic landscape includes numerous countries with different currencies and regulatory environments, making cross-border payments complex and costly. AI can simplify these transactions by automating currency conversions and ensuring compliance with local regulations.

    “AI-driven platforms can optimize routing for cross-border payments, reducing transaction fees and processing times. This is particularly beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) looking to expand their operations across the continent,” Olasubomi added.

    AI enables the personalization of financial services, tailored to the specific needs of businesses. By analyzing transaction histories and business profiles, AI can recommend customized financial products and services. “For instance, AI can suggest tailored financing options or provide insights into cash flow management. This level of personalization helps businesses optimize their financial operations and make strategic decisions,” said Olasubomi.

    AI has the potential to drive financial inclusion in Africa by making financial services more accessible to underserved businesses. Traditional financial institutions often overlook SMEs due to high risks and costs associated with servicing them. “AI can lower these barriers by providing cost-effective and scalable solutions for credit scoring, loan processing, and transaction monitoring. By enabling more businesses to access financial services, AI supports economic growth and development across the continent,” Olasubomi remarked.

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    The ability to make data-driven decisions is critical in today’s fast-paced business environment. AI-powered analytics provide real-time insights into financial operations, helping businesses monitor their performance and identify opportunities for improvement. “These insights can be crucial for strategic planning, allowing businesses to respond quickly to market changes and optimize their operations,” Olasubomi concluded.

    The integration of AI in B2B payments in Africa holds immense potential to transform the way businesses operate. By streamlining processes, enhancing security, improving credit risk assessments, facilitating secure cross-border payments, personalizing financial services, and driving financial inclusion, AI is set to revolutionize the B2B payment landscape. As African economies continue to grow and digitalize, embracing AI-driven solutions will be key to unlocking the continent’s economic potential and fostering a more connected, efficient, and inclusive business environment.