The Independence Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) recently admonished young people to bring aboard their knowledge of technology to support the anti-corruption fight.
The call was made during the interactive session at the event by Dr. Anike Adeshina, who represented the ICPC at a workshop organised by the Center for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity (CeFTPI), during the 2024 commemoration of the International Anti-Corruption Day, themed “The Role of Youths in Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Enhancing Democracy and Good Governance”.
She stated that the ICPC under its new leadership recently commenced deploying technology in tacking corruption and continue to align with current tech in warring corrupt practices.
In his welcome remarks, Dr. Umar Yakubu, the Executive Director of the Center for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity (CeFTPI), who was represented by Mr. Victor Agi, the Project Lead – International Anti-Corruption Day (IACD) event, said Artificial Intelligence has become a cornerstone of modern technological advancements that offers unprecedented opportunities to detect, prevent and combat corruption.
Dr. Yakubu revealed that “from analyzing vast datasets to identify irregularities in real-time, AI is a powerful ally in promoting transparency and accountability”, adding that the technological tools are as impactful as the creativity, commitment, and courage of those who wield them.
The CEFTPi boss further stated that young people represent energy, innovation and adaptability to the change needed in Nigeria; noting that equipping them with the right skills and creating an environment of ethical leadership, they can be empowered to harness technology in way that hold the corrupt accountable and build systems of integrity”.
He informed the participants that the event was designed to spark insightful conversations and explore actionable strategies to bridge the gap between technology and governance, explaining that young innovators can leverage AI to build a future where transparency becomes the norm.
The workshop featured four presentations by young AI experts and they include, “Harnessing AI for Anti-Corruption: Empowering Youths as Change Agents presented by Igata John”, “Application of Fact-Checkers in Verifying Information presented by Rejoice Tadi”, “Use of AI in Procurement and Population” presented by Samuel Nntiwe Theophilus and the Use of AI Applications for Crimes Monitoring in the Society presented by Godwin Agha.
The event which had in attendance 76 participants, also had governmental and non-governmental stakeholder’s participation including; Malam Haruna Shehu, Head of Digital Solution Development at the Galaxy Backbone Ltd, Malam Aliyu Umar, Head of Strategic communication at BPSR, Abuja, NYSC members and representatives of some NGOs.