A technological expert says the deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI), can significantly reduce the incidences of kidnapping, terrorism, and insurgency.
The expert, Prof Bourdillon Omijeh, Director of the Center for Information and Telecommunications Engineering (CITE), University of Port-Harcourt, made the suggestion on Saturday in Abuja in a lecture at the Investiture of Mr Felix Olu, the 21st President of Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineer (NIEEE).
In the lecture titled: “Security Situation in Nigeria: Artificial Intelligence(AI) to the Rescue”, he said security agencies needed to leverage that technology effectively in the 36 states.
”To streamline this process, a unit should be established in security agencies’ head offices for geospatial data collection across the country.
“The unit should have a specific focus on individual states based on unit location,” he said.
Omijeh said that security agencies should frequently display images of wanted kidnappers and terrorists at various public locations.
“While the conventional method has proved effective on several occasions in facilitating the arrest of wanted individuals, a more advanced and efficient approach involves the deployment of facial recognition technology in public places.
“This technology can systematically screen individuals in public areas, swiftly identifying and tracking wanted persons associated with criminal activities,” he said.
According to him, professional bodies like the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) and NIEEE should be more committed to collaborative and innovative research works with tertiary institutions, especially on emerging digital trends and solutions.
He said that the country had a pool of great talents and potential to fight insecurity to a standstill “if our leaders could cultivate the willpower and tenacity of purpose; if they could deploy emerging technologies.”
In his inaugural lecture, Olu said that as the new administration of NIEEE takes off, the institute has taken it upon itself to focus on several areas.
Olu said that the institute would embark on a higher membership drive and strive to deliver more membership dividends, including professional benefits and capacity development.
He said that the institute would take its professional place in the scheme of things by proactively engaging stakeholders in the power sector.
NAN
