The government of the United Kingdom has announced its intention to collaborate with the Nigerian government on addressing safety and security risks associated with Artificial Intelligence (AI)models. This announcement was made by Kumar Iyer, the Director-General of the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, during the Nigeria Innovation Summit (NIS) held in Lagos.
Iyer emphasized that while AI offers numerous benefits, it also poses significant risks that innovators and governments must acknowledge and mitigate. He pointed out that non-state actors are increasingly using AI to launch attacks on states, and it has enhanced the capabilities of terrorists in developing weapons and conducting cyber-attacks.
Recognizing the global nature of these AI-related risks, Iyer stressed the importance of international cooperation. He stated that addressing these problems requires collaboration among nations because no single country can tackle them alone. He cited the AI Safety Summit that the UK is organizing on November 1st and 2nd as a crucial step in fostering international cooperation to address AI-related risks.
READ ALSO: Telecom’s investments in Nigeria grow to $77bn from $38bn by Q2 2023 – NCC
Iyer also clarified that it is essential to distinguish between the risks associated with AI innovation and the risks that arise from AI safety and security concerns. The UK is interested in working with Nigeria in improving AI datasets in areas such as education, healthcare, and agricultural diseases unique to Nigeria. Additionally, they seek to collaborate on AI safety, particularly addressing security risks posed by advanced AI models.
Iyer noted that while AI has been in existence for some time, recent advancements in generative AI and large language models have significantly changed the technology landscape. He highlighted that the UK is considering how to manage the risks associated with these developments. However, he clarified that they do not intend to establish a large regulatory body specifically for sector-specific AI risks in the UK.
In closing, Iyer advised governments worldwide to adopt a measured approach to AI regulation, emphasizing the importance of gradual development of rules over time rather than rushing into extensive regulation. This approach allows for a better understanding of AI’s impact and associated risks while fostering responsible AI innovation.
