AI Key to Tackling Insecurity, Driving Growth – Expert

A systems analyst and cyber safety advocate, Tinuola Popoola, has described Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a game-changing technology capable of addressing security challenges and accelerating national development in Nigeria.

Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja, Popoola said AI was transforming the way people live, work and solve complex problems, making it an indispensable tool in today's digital world.

She explained that AI enables computer systems to mimic human intelligence, analyse data, solve problems and support decision-making processes across various sectors.

According to her, the technology is already powering many everyday innovations, including smart devices and virtual assistants, while helping organisations automate operations and improve service delivery.

“Artificial intelligence is reshaping how challenges are addressed by making processes faster, smarter and more efficient,” she said.

Popoola noted that businesses worldwide are increasingly adopting AI-powered technologies such as natural language processing and computer vision to streamline operations, enhance customer engagement and improve productivity.

Beyond its applications in manufacturing, banking and healthcare, she said AI has significant potential in strengthening national security and combating cyber threats.

She explained that AI-driven systems could help security agencies detect vulnerabilities, identify suspicious activities and respond to cyber threats more effectively than conventional methods.

“AI can automate several tasks previously handled by human analysts, enabling faster threat detection and response,” she said.

Citing global trends, Popoola said organisations that deployed AI-based cybersecurity solutions had recorded substantial reductions in the time required to identify and contain data breaches, leading to significant cost savings.

She added that Nigeria could also benefit economically by integrating AI into its cybersecurity framework, reducing losses caused by cybercrime and data breaches.

According to her, traditional security systems are increasingly vulnerable to attacks, making the adoption of intelligent technologies necessary to improve resilience and protection.

Despite its advantages, Popoola cautioned against relying solely on AI to address security concerns, stressing the need for strong regulatory policies to govern its deployment.

She called for comprehensive frameworks to safeguard data privacy, strengthen security standards and ensure the responsible use of emerging technologies.

“Artificial intelligence should complement existing security strategies and human expertise rather than replace them,” she said.

The cyber safety advocate also raised concerns over the growing incidence of internet fraud, popularly known as “Yahoo Yahoo,” among Nigerian youths.

She attributed the trend to economic hardship, unemployment, poverty, poor financial literacy, peer influence and the quest for quick wealth.

Popoola urged government and stakeholders to prioritise youth empowerment, job creation and digital skills development to channel young people's talents into productive ventures and reduce cybercrime.