Experts At FITC Confab Advocate AI Adoption Against Cyber Threats

In a bid to counter the increasing wave of cybercrime, cybersecurity experts and industry leaders convened at the FITC 2023 Cybersecurity Conference to champion the adoption of Artificial Intelligence technology as a pivotal measure in fortifying digital defenses against cyber threats.

During the conference on Wednesday, Lagos, the Cybersecurity manager at Ernst and Young Global Limited, Kelly Orjiude, recalled Nigeria’s vulnerability, citing a staggering 12.9 million cyber-attacks during the past presidential election.

To combat this, Orjiude advocated for the integration of AI-driven technologies. These advanced systems, he explained, can analyse vast amounts of data in real time, enabling the detection of intricate cyber threats while automating incident responses to mitigate potential damages swiftly.

Orjiude, however, cautioned about the responsible use of AI technology. While it strengthens cybersecurity defenses, there exists a risk of misuse for malicious purposes, as seen in instances of AI-driven fraud and misinformation.  

He emphasised the need for ethical and responsible AI practices to ensure the technology is harnessed for the greater good.

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“In our pursuit of technological advancement, ethical considerations must guide us.

“AI is a powerful tool; how we use it determines its impact on society. Responsible AI integration is not just a choice; it’s our moral obligation,” Orjiude emphasized.

The managing director of Nigeria Interbank Settlement Systems, Premier Oiwoh stressed the imperative of strengthening Africa’s economic growth amidst cybersecurity challenges.

The NIBSS chief was represented by the chief information security officer of NIBSS, Olusola Odediran.

Oiwoh stressed the interconnectedness of digital transactions and critical infrastructure, saying, “There is the need for capacity building, public-private partnerships, and international cooperation.”

These collaborative efforts, he stated, were essential in developing homegrown solutions tailored to Africa’s unique needs, enhancing the region’s ability to respond effectively to cybersecurity threats

The founder of the Holistic Information Security Practitioner Institute, Taiye Lambo echoed this sentiment, underlining the transformative potential of AI in reshaping Nigeria’s image globally.

Lambo envisioned a future where innovative solutions and advanced AI models would positively disrupt various societal aspects, urging participants to integrate AI safely and responsibly to address deep-rooted challenges hindering the nation’s progress.

The chief executive officer, FiTC, Chizor Malize said, “extensive research has shown that Africa is particularly vulnerable to cyber threats due to various factors, including a lack of robust cybersecurity infrastructure, inadequate awareness and education, and the rapid pace of digital adoption without commensurate security measures.

“The consequences of a successful cyberattack can be devastating, leading to financial losses, erosion of trust, and even endangering lives through critical infrastructure vulnerabilities.”