UNGA: Tinubu Urges World to Harness AI, Not Fear It

President Bola Tinubu has urged the international community not to surrender the future of artificial intelligence to fear, calling for its responsible use to advance human development.

Tinubu made the call in Nigeria’s national statement at the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, delivered on his behalf by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

The President said artificial intelligence could either serve humanity or cause harm depending on how it is developed and deployed. He argued that the growing anxiety surrounding the technology should not prevent countries from exploring its potential for social and economic transformation.

According to Tinubu, AI can be deployed to transform critical sectors including healthcare, education, agriculture, governance and economic productivity. He encouraged governments and institutions to focus on ensuring that technological progress is directed towards improving lives and expanding opportunities.

Nigeria, he said, is already investing in digital public infrastructure, broadband connectivity, innovation ecosystems, research institutions and technology entrepreneurship as part of efforts to strengthen its digital economy.

Tinubu also invited international partners to work with Nigeria’s young population, describing the country’s youth as inventive, resourceful and enterprising. He said collaboration in technology and innovation could help Nigeria and other developing countries maximise the benefits of artificial intelligence.

The President’s remarks come amid growing international debate over the opportunities and risks associated with AI, including concerns about security, employment, misinformation, privacy and the responsible development of advanced technologies.

Tinubu stressed the need for greater trust and sound judgement in determining how emerging technologies are used, arguing that the technology itself should not be separated from the purposes for which it is deployed.

He further linked technological advancement with broader development priorities, including stronger institutions, investment, infrastructure and economic opportunity.

Nigeria’s position at the UNGA also called for international cooperation to ensure developing countries have access to the technology, financing and capacity needed to participate meaningfully in the global digital economy.

The President said Nigeria was prepared to work with global partners to direct artificial intelligence towards humanity’s advancement rather than its destruction.