The Centre for Civilians in Conflict, has called for according priorities to the development of clear guidelines and regulations governing the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and autonomous weapons in modern warfare.
The Centre’s Regional Director for Africa and the Middle East, Mr Vianney Bisimwa, made the call on Monday in Kaduna at the opening of a three-day workshop organised by the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in partnership with the centre.
The theme of the workshop was: “Artificial Intelligence Autonomous Weapons and Protection of Civilians in Modern Warfare”.
Bisimwa, represented by Saratu Joshua, Country Programme Coordinator of the centre, said that the face of warfare had undergone a significant transformation, courtesy of emerging technologies.
She said that the advent of Al and autonomous weapons had revolutionised the way militaries operate.
This is by offering unparalleled advantages in identifying enemies, tracking targets, and executing military operations with precision.
“The benefits of Al and autonomous weapons are undeniable. These technologies enable militaries to enhance precision, increase efficiency, and improve safety.
“Al-powered systems can analyse vast
amounts of data, identify patterns, and make decisions faster and more accurately than humans.
“Autonomous systems can operate around the clock, reducing the need for human intervention and minimising the risk of fatigue-related errors,”he said .
By removing humans from harm’s way, Bisimwa also said that autonomous
systems could reduce the risk of casualties and improve overall safety.
He added that in Nigeria, the military had successfully utilised Al and autonomous weapons in various operations.
“The Nigerian Air Force has employed Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to conduct reconnaissance and surveillance missions, providing critical intelligence to ground troops.
“Globally, Al and autonomous weapons have been used in various military operations, including counter-terrorism operations and
defense against rocket attacks,”Bisimwa said.
He, however, said in spite of the successes, concerns surrounding the use of Al and autonomous weapons were persisting.
He said the potential for misapplication or inappropriate targeting by users remained a significant risk.
Moreover, the Regional Director said the lack of transparency and accountability in the development and deployment of the technologies raised ethical concerns.
In some instances, he lamented that civilian lives had been threatened or lost due to misapplication or inappropriate targeting by users.
To address the concerns, he therefore, said it is essential to establish clear guidelines and regulations governing the use of Al and autonomous weapons.
He recommended developing of standards for the development, testing and deployment of autonomous systems, establishing clear protocols for human oversight and
intervention.
Bisimwa called for ensuring transparency and accountability in the development and deployment of Al
and autonomous weapons.
“As we move forward, it is crucial that we prioritise the development of clear guidelines and
regulations governing the use of Al and autonomous weapons.
“By working together, we can ensure that
these technologies are used responsibly and in ways that minimise the risk of harm to civilians.
“We owe it to ourselves, our nations, and the global community to ensure that the benefits of Al and autonomous
Weapons are realized while minimising the risks.
“The use of Al and autonomous weapons in modern warfare offers significant advantages, but also raises critical concerns.
“As we navigate this complex and rapidly evolving landscape, let us remain committed to responsible innovation, transparency, and accountability,”he said.
Earlier, the Commandant of the NDA, Maj.-Gen. John Ochai, said AI and autonomous weapons have come to stay and were part of the future weapons and transformation in military affairs.
He said the Nigerian Armed Forces cannot be behind in the important and contemporary technology.
Ochai, therefore, said the armed forces needed to step up it game and be ahead of every adversary.
He said that was why NDA organised the workshop in partnership with the centre for the benefit of the cadets who are the future leaders of the armed forces of the nation.
Ochai added that with the awareness, the cadets would be able to use the technologies for its positive impact in confronting the challenges currently facing the security and defence of Nigeria.
Bearing in mind the need for protection of civilians, the commandant said the need for taking responsibility on the use of the AI and autonomous weapons was critical.
He emphasised that weapons were made to serve man and not the opposite, therefore emphasising on the responsibility in the hands of the armed forces in using the weapons.
“We can’t pass the bulk to AI, that is a human responsibility.
“There is no doubt that this technologies will only enhance our capability and will never transfer responsibility to non human intelligence,”Ochai said.
