Nigeria, a nation long plagued by diverse Security challenges, is turning to Technology in a bid to overcome its most pressing issues. For years, the country has battled insurgency in the North-East, rampant kidnappings, and the growing menace of Banditry in the North-West and central regions. These persistent threats have not only disrupted lives but also hampered economic growth, particularly in sectors like Agriculture and oil production. Amid this backdrop, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has announced plans to deploy Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a game-changing tool in combating insecurity, signalling a significant shift in the nation’s approach to security
Representing Ondo South, Chair of the Senate Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Affairs, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, provided insight into the administration’s plans during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today. He revealed that AI applications would be developed to track and neutralise threats posed by terrorists, kidnappers, and bandits, aiming to make 2025 a challenging year for criminals. Ibrahim emphasised that the initiative aligns with the government’s broader commitment to enhancing security, as evidenced by the ₦4.91 trillion allocation for defence and security in the 2025 budget proposal. “AI will be deployed to assist security personnel in making life uncomfortable for criminals,” he asserted, adding that this technological leap could redefine Nigeria’s security landscape.
Mirroring global AI security Innovations for national stability.
Dubbed the ‘Restoration Budget’, the ₦49.7 trillion proposal reflects Tinubu’s focus on restoring order and stability. Beyond defence, significant allocations were made to Education (₦3.5 trillion), Infrastructure (₦4.06 trillion), and health (₦2.4 trillion). Ibrahim highlighted that bolstering security would create a more stable and safe environment for operations, which could, in turn, lead to increased Revenue from oil production. He also pointed to improvements in Nigeria’s security index, asserting that no local government area remains under Boko Haram’s control. While some critics question the pace of progress, the senator praised the military and police for their achievements, describing them as instrumental in curbing the nation’s security threats.
The decision to integrate AI into Nigeria’s security framework reflects a growing global trend. Nations such as Israel, China, and the United States have successfully harnessed AI for defence purposes. Israel’s Iron Dome, an advanced missile interception system, and China’s use of AI for real-time surveillance demonstrate the transformative potential of technology in modern warfare. If executed effectively, Nigeria’s AI initiative could place it at the forefront of technological Innovation in Africa, inspiring neighbouring countries to adopt similar measures. By fostering regional stability, the initiative could also strengthen Nigeria’s leadership position on the continent.
Navigating ethical concerns in AI deployment.
However, adopting AI in National Security is not without its challenges. The success of this ambitious plan will depend on several factors, including skilled personnel, infrastructure, and sufficient funding. Additionally, the ethical implications of AI, particularly concerns over privacy, surveillance, and data security, must be addressed to prevent abuse. Nigeria must also ensure that its AI systems are tailored to its unique security landscape, avoiding the pitfalls of adopting a one-size-fits-all approach. Effective collaboration between security agencies, private technology firms, and international partners will be critical to the initiative’s success.
It is also worth noting that the global AI arms race has sparked significant debates on the balance between security and civil liberties. While Nigeria’s move to adopt AI is commendable, it must tread carefully to avoid eroding public trust. Transparent policies, robust oversight mechanisms, and clear boundaries on the use of AI will be essential in fostering citizen support. If these concerns are adequately addressed, the initiative could pave the way for AI to become an integral part of Nigeria’s broader developmental agenda.
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Ultimately, Nigeria’s embrace of artificial intelligence for tackling the problem of Insecurity marks a bold step towards a more stable future. This initiative holds the promise of not only improving national security but also unlocking economic potential by fostering an environment where citizens and businesses can thrive. As the Tinubu administration embarks on this transformative journey, the world will watch closely and hope that Nigeria’s efforts will set a new benchmark for innovation-driven security solutions across Africa.