The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has asked that Artificial Intelligence (AI) should only be embraced if it elevates human dignity.
Speaking at a conference with theme: “Human Rights Dimensions of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance and UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights: Challenges and Opportunities in Africa”, organised by International Network for Corporate Social Responsibility (IN-CSR) and the NHRC in partnership with United Nations Human Rights, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC), the Executive Secretary of NHRC, Dr. Tony Ojukwu said: “As we stand on the tip of an AI-driven future, I call upon each of our policymakers, technologists, business leaders, civil society advocates, and international partners to join us in this critical journey. Let us work together to ensure that:
“Innovation and human rights go hand in hand by ensuring that the transformative potential of AI is fully harnessed only when it elevates human dignity.
“Our regulatory frameworks evolve through the continuous review and refining of our legal and normative frameworks to address emerging challenges while safeguarding fundamental rights.
“We forge a shared vision, one where technology serves as a tool for inclusive growth, sustainable development, and enhanced human dignity.
Ojukwu said the future should be molded to make technology strengthen human rights rather than diminishes them, stating that the Commission is ready to lead this charge, ensuring that AI governance is rooted in the core values that define our society.
He noted that: “We are at an intersection where we need to embrace the new digital frontier with human dignity with AI being both a catalyst and a challenge.
“It is no longer news that AI has emerged as one of the most transformative forces of our times. Its capabilities in data processing, automation, and decision-making have opened new avenues for innovation, economic expansion, and improved public service delivery. Yet, with great power comes great responsibility.”
He warned that: “AI, if not governed with robust ethical frameworks and with a strong human dignity at the root, can accentuate inequalities, result in algorithmic bias, invade privacy, and ultimately infringe on human rights.”
He revealed that: “The Commission perceives this, not as a threat, but as an extraordinary opportunity to expand its mandate in the digital space. We are poised to chart a course that integrates our core human rights commitments with the emerging field of AI governance, ensuring that technological progress is inextricably linked with respect for dignity, equality, and justice.
“The Commission is committed to developing and advocating for comprehensive norms, guidelines and advisory that will govern the ethical use of AI. Our work will continue to build upon international human rights standards like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights and other relevant frameworks to ensure that AI systems respect the rights of all individuals.
“The Commission in its strategic approach, will engage tech companies to ensure that AI algorithms are transparent. This transparency will allow for independent audits, redress mechanisms, and accountability measures that will prevent discrimination or harm.”
On his part, the President/Lead Consultant, IN-CSR, Eustace Onuegbu said the rapid advancement of AI presents both immense opportunities and potential challenges, particularly regarding human rights and ethical considerations.
He noted that: “The UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights provide a crucial framework for ensuring that businesses, including those involved in AI development and deployment, respect human rights.”
He promised that: “We will delve into specific challenges and opportunities that AI presents for human rights in Africa, including issues of access, fairness, and accountability.”
