The incessant and ever present insecurity in various regions of Nigeria has underscored the importance of leveraging advanced technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), to enhance safety and security measures. I am strongly advocating for the establishment of an AI Safety and Security Board in Nigeria to provide expert guidance on utilizing AI to defend critical infrastructure, especially against AI-powered attacks. By outlining the potential benefits of such a board and emphasizing the significance of proactive security measures, this article highlights the critical role that AI can play in safeguarding national assets and infrastructure.
As Nigeria grapples with increasing security challenges, including insurgency, terrorism, and cyber threats, there is a pressing need to explore innovative solutions to protect critical infrastructure and bolster national security. The emergence of AI technology offers unprecedented opportunities to strengthen defense mechanisms and safeguard vital assets from evolving security threats. Establishing an AI Safety and Security Board can serve as a strategic initiative to harness the benefits of AI while addressing the risks associated with its use in safeguarding critical infrastructure.
First; Expert Guidance: An AI Safety and Security Board composed of experts in AI technology, cybersecurity, and national defense can provide invaluable insights and recommendations on leveraging AI to defend critical infrastructure effectively. By tapping into the expertise of this board, the government can make informed decisions and implement proactive security measures that align with best practices and emerging trends in AI security.
Secondly; Threat Detection and Response: AI-powered attacks present a unique challenge that traditional security measures may struggle to address effectively. Through advanced AI algorithms and machine learning capabilities, the government can enhance its ability to detect, analyze, and respond to sophisticated cyber threats in real-time. An AI Safety and Security Board can advise on the deployment of AI solutions for threat detection, incident response, and vulnerability management to safeguard critical infrastructure from malicious activities.
Thirdly; Policy Development: The establishment of an AI Safety and Security Board can also facilitate the development of robust policies and regulations governing the use of AI in defense and security applications. By promoting ethical AI practices, data privacy protections, and transparency in AI algorithms, the board can ensure that AI technologies are deployed responsibly and in compliance with national security standards.
One illustrative example of the role of an AI Safety and Security Board is in advising on the implementation of AI-powered intrusion detection systems for securing critical infrastructure such as the transmission lines and networks of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), the power lines of the Distribution Companies (DisCos), railway tracks, bridges and railings, transportation networks, and other government facilities. By leveraging AI algorithms to monitor network traffic, detect anomalies, and prevent cyber attacks, these systems can bolster the resilience of essential services against emerging threats.
In conclusion, the establishment of an AI Safety and Security Board in Nigeria will indicate a proactive step towards leveraging AI technology to defend critical infrastructure and enhance national security. By harnessing the expertise of AI professionals and security specialists, the government can develop strategic initiatives to mitigate risks, strengthen defenses, and respond effectively to security challenges. Through collaboration, innovation, and informed decision-making, Nigeria can harness the transformative potential of AI to safeguard its vital assets and infrastructure against evolving threats, ensuring a safer and more secure future for its citizens.
NB: Sonny Iroche writes from; Artificial Intelligence for Business Post Graduate Program. Saïd Business School
University of Oxford. UK
