House Passes Bill to Regulate AI in Nigeria

The Nigerian House of Representatives has advanced a bill to establish a regulatory agency for Artificial Intelligence (AI) to address potential challenges arising from its use. Sponsored by several lawmakers, the bill aims to create the National Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Robotic Studies Sciences Regulation Commission to ensure proper control over AI technology. Meanwhile, global perspectives on AI are mixed, with concerns about its rapid deployment leading to potential societal harms, heightened by exaggerated claims about its capabilities, especially in healthcare. Experts warn that sensational narratives could undermine public trust in both AI and human professionals, while the ethical implications of AI applications continue to raise alarm. Additionally, algorithmic harms related to privacy and fairness pose significant risks that regulatory frameworks must urgently address. As AI technology evolves, the call for comprehensive oversight becomes increasingly critical to maximize benefits and minimize risks.