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PROTECTION OF HUMAN DIGNITY IS KEY TO ETHICAL AI DEVELOPMENT — OKPE
From Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
A Professor of Ethics and Values, Rev. Fr. Prof. Nicholas Ojoajogwu Okpe, has called for the protection of human dignity as the foundation for the ethical development and deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Okpe made the call during the 20th Inaugural Lecture of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, where he examined the ethical, philosophical and theological implications of emerging AI technologies on humanity.
Delivering a lecture titled “Imago Dei: The Dignity of the Human Being in the Ethical Universum of 21st Century Artificial Intelligence,” Okpe said technological innovations throughout history have consistently challenged humanity’s understanding of itself, noting that AI represents one of the most significant ethical and anthropological questions of the modern era.
He explained “Imago Dei” as the Christian belief that human beings are created in the image and likeness of God, stressing that this belief confers inherent dignity, worth and moral responsibility on every person.
According to him, any meaningful discussion on artificial intelligence must begin with a proper understanding of the human person, adding that human dignity cannot be reduced to utility, performance or technological efficiency.
The inaugural lecturer identified conscience as an essential moral compass guiding ethical decision-making, arguing that intelligent machines, regardless of their capabilities, cannot replace human moral responsibility and accountability.
He warned that AI poses risks to human dignity, including the instrumentalisation of persons, erosion of autonomy, invasion of privacy, economic displacement, algorithmic bias and the blurring of distinctions between humans and machines.
Drawing from theological, philosophical and ethical perspectives, Okpe stressed that artificial intelligence must be developed and governed within frameworks that prioritise justice, transparency, accountability, human rights and the common good.
He maintained that technology should remain a servant of humanity rather than its master, insisting that where conflicts arise between efficiency and human dignity, dignity must prevail.
The professor also advocated a global ethical and spiritual dialogue involving theologians, philosophers, scientists, policymakers, technology developers and community leaders to shape a human-centred future for artificial intelligence.
He concluded that the future of AI should focus on enhancing human creativity, wisdom, justice and compassion while preserving the sacred worth of every human being.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Inaugural Lecture Committee, Prof. Sunday Salifu Arogba, congratulated the lecturer on the academic milestone.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Salisu Ogbo Usman, described the topic as timely and relevant, noting that AI has become one of the most transformative technologies of the 21st century with implications for education, healthcare, governance, security, business and scientific research.
He said the lecture reinforced the role of universities in providing intellectual leadership on emerging global challenges, and commended Okpe for his contributions to ethical discourse and character formation.
The Vice-Chancellor also appreciated the Inaugural Lecture Committee for sustaining the university’s culture of scholarship and intellectual engagement.
News
Police Academy Wudil Gets New Commandant
By Jabiru Hassan
The Police Academy, Wudil, Kano State, has appointed AIG Auwal Musa Muhammad as its 25th Commandant. Muhammad formally assumed office at a ceremony held at the Muhammadu Buhari Parade Ground, attended by senior academy officers, invited guests and representatives of host communities.
In his address, the new commandant pledged to contribute to the development of the institution and prioritise the welfare of staff and students, environmental safety and stronger relations with surrounding communities.
Muhammad said his administration would work to maintain the academy’s reputation and strengthen its capacity to produce competent and professional police officers. “I am here to contribute my quota towards the progress of Police Academy Wudil and ensure that the institution’s good image remains impressive,” he said.
He also assured the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, of his commitment to fulfilling the responsibilities assigned to him and improving the learning environment at the academy.
The commandant urged staff to remain dedicated and diligent, saying their collective efforts would contribute to improved academic and professional standards. He commended his predecessors for their contributions to the development of the institution.
During an interactive session with senior academy officials, Muhammad urged them to uphold discipline, integrity and unity while working to strengthen academic excellence. He thanked staff and others who contributed to the smooth transition and pledged to promote collaboration in achieving the academy’s objectives.
News
Nigerian Farmers Commend Gettado’s Leadership of AFAN
By Jabiru Hassan
Farmers from different parts of Nigeria have expressed support for the leadership of Muhammad Magaji Gettado as National President of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN).
The farmers, in a joint statement, passed a vote of confidence in Gettado, saying his leadership had contributed to efforts aimed at improving the agricultural sector and making farming more sustainable and profitable. The statement was signed by Alhaji Sulaiman Umar of Gombe State and Malam Abdullahi Mai Nasara of Katsina.
The farmers described AFAN as a platform for promoting unity among farmers and representing their interests in engagements with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and other relevant agencies.They said Gettado’s leadership style had strengthened cooperation among members and promoted greater participation across different categories of farmers.
According to the farmers, his background in agricultural development had informed his approach to addressing challenges facing the sector. They also commended previous AFAN leaders for their contributions to agricultural development and said continuity in efforts to improve farmers’ welfare remained important.
Farmers from the six geopolitical zones also expressed their support for Gettado, pledging to work together to promote food production, economic development and opportunities for farmers.They called for continued collaboration among farmers, government institutions and other stakeholders to address challenges affecting agricultural productivity.
News
Kogi Government Commends Foundation for Rebuilding Community Secondary School
From Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Kogi State Government has commended the Henry Adetayo Foundation for reconstructing Community Secondary School, Oke Agi, in Mopamuro Local Government Area, and urged more private organisations to support education infrastructure.
The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, gave the commendation on Wednesday during an inspection of the reconstructed school.Fanwo described the project, led by Engr. Adebayo Mike Arayegbemi, as a significant investment in the educational development of the community.
He said the state government was allocating more than 30 per cent of its expenditure to education but could not meet every infrastructure need without support from private individuals and organisations.
Fanwo said the government would consider integrating the school into the state’s public education system and directed the Ministry of Education to assess the possibility of taking over its management.
The reconstructed facility comprises nine classroom blocks, four administrative offices, laboratories, a library, a computer laboratory and a hall for external examinations. It also has a solar power installation designed to provide electricity to the school. Fanwo announced a N1.75 million support package in scholarships and communication gadgets for students of the school.
The Danayangun of Oke Agi, HRH Oba Joshua Are, thanked the foundation for the project, which he said was about 99 per cent complete. The school is expected to be officially commissioned later in the year.
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