Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Enhanced Governance: A Call to Action
As governments strive for better governance, experts emphasize the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in public service delivery. This article explores the importance of ethical AI policies and collaboration between governments and tech companies to foster accountability, transparency, and inclusivity in governance.
In an era where technology shapes the landscape of governance, the call for integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into public administration is becoming increasingly urgent. Experts are advocating for state and federal governments to develop robust AI policies that prioritize good governance, fact-checking, and verification processes. The push for this integration was highlighted during the 11th Annual Conference of the Association of Communication Scholars & Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN), where communication scholars and professionals emphasized the necessity for collaboration between government agencies, big tech companies, civil society organizations, and academic institutions.
At the heart of this dialogue is the notion that AI can significantly enhance public service delivery, promote inclusivity, and improve accountability in governance. Keynote speaker Dapo Olorunyomi, publisher of Premium Times, articulated this potential in his address, “Digital communication and governance in Africa.” He urged for the design and implementation of a national AI strategy, stressing its power to transform governance, but also warned of the ethical implications that must be addressed to avoid privacy violations.
The conference underscored the urgent need for communication and journalism institutions to attract funding to establish AI and digital communication laboratories. These facilities would serve as training grounds for the next generation of scholars and practitioners, preparing them to navigate the complexities of modern governance. By fostering an environment conducive to technological advancement, communication scholars and practitioners can work together to develop AI methodologies that contribute to good governance and societal development.
Moreover, the integration of digital communication in governance is seen as a vital step toward addressing the funding crises and disinformation challenges facing the media industry in Africa. Communication institutions across the continent are encouraged to establish and maintain newsrooms and labs managed by experienced professionals who can impart knowledge to future journalists and media practitioners.
To further enhance the governance landscape, experts call for individual departments in Communication and Media Studies to incorporate local content into their curricula, reflecting local expertise and enhancing the relevance of education in this field. This will ensure that graduates are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of contemporary governance and communication.
The digitalization of information and the implementation of effective governance strategies may be challenging and resource-intensive; however, they are essential for progress. As Professor Ralph Akinfeleye, the conference chairman, noted, confronting these challenges is imperative for leaders, scholars, and governments alike.
In a practical demonstration of the commitment to digital transformation, the Lagos State Government is already taking steps to incorporate AI-driven solutions, such as:
- Installation of CCTV cameras to enhance security
- Laying of fiber optic cables to improve connectivity
These are key components of their smart city initiative.
As the dialogue surrounding AI and governance continues, it becomes clear that the deployment of AI technologies is not just a trend but a necessary evolution in the quest for effective governance. By focusing on ethical deployment, collaboration, and education, governments can pave the way for a future where AI fosters transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in public service delivery.
