AI is double-edged sword – DSS boss, Bichi

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

The Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Alh. Yusuf Bichi has said that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a double-edged sword.
He said this is because AI can be used to turn Africa’s economic fortunes around, and also undermine national security.
“It is imperative that we develop robust strategies, to mitigate this, while harnessing the benefits of AI”.
Speaking on Monday at a seminar organised by the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) for participants of the Executive Intelligence Management Course (EIMC 17) in Abuja, he said “The lecture entitled, Artificial Intelligence, Security and Emerging Economies in Africa: Challenges and Prospects,” was organised for 92 participants drawn from 5 African countries, including Chad, the Gambia and Rwanda.
The theme of this seminar could not be more timely and relevant, as we stand on the threshold of the fourth industrial revolution.And the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly expanding, with profound implications on every sector of our society.
Represented by the Director of Administration, Alh. Mohammed Kaumi, he said: “AI is not just a technological innovation. It is a transformative force that has the potential to reshape economies, enhance security, and drive sustainable development across the African continent.
“In the realm of security, AI represents lots of opportunities and challenges.
“On one hand, AI offers powerful tools to enhance our capabilities in surveillance, crime detection, and decision making.
“From predictive analytics to autonomous system, AI can significantly improve our ability to respond to emerging security threats, with speed and precision”.
He continued: “However, we must also recognise the risk associated with AI, particularly in the context of cyber security.
“As AI systems become more sophisticated, so too will be the tactics of those who seek to exploit them.
“We are already witnessing the rise of…driven cyber attacks…and other forms of digital manipulations that could undermine our security, and digital systems.
“Therefore, it is imperative that we develop robust strategies, to mitigate this, while harnessing the benefits of AI.
“For Africa’s emerging economies, AI represents a double-edged sword,
“On one hand, it holds the promise of accelerating economic growth, improving healthcare, enhancing education, and addressing infrastructural challenges.
“The ability to leverage AI to leverage agricultural productivity, financial inclusion, and Public service delivery, would a lot new avenues for developmental and poverty alleviation.
“In addressing the challenges, and maximising the prospects of AI, a multi- stakeholders’ approach is crucial.
Governments, the private sector, academia, and civil society must work together to create an enabling environment for AI innovation.This includes investing in digital infrastructure”.