Pantami Advises Nigerian Military on AI Algorithms for Precision Airstrikes

Pantami Advises Nigerian Military on AI Algorithms for Precision Airstrikes

The immediate past Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Professor Ali Isa Pantami has advised Nigerian military on deployment of emerging technologies to achieve 100% accuracy while using drones for wars and other military operations.

In an article title “Technical Advice to the Military,” the professor of Cyber-security said the airstrike that killed civilians in Kaduna State could have been avoided in the era of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) through the use of disruptive technologies.

The full text read:

I just read a quote from a statement that originated from the Nigerian Army. Initially, I thought it was fake, and I immediately discarded it. Then, a friend immediately drew my attention to the fact that it was posted on the Nigerian Army X official handle @HQNigerianArmy (previously known as Twitter).

Furthermore, the statement was made by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja during his visit to Tudun Biri Community in Igani Local Government Area of Kaduna State where innocent Nigerians participating in “maulud celebration” were killed through bombing by our Nigerian Army. The effort of Lagbaja in visiting the place of the atrocity immediately and making good remarks is commendable, and he demonstrated a good quality of leadership.

In the statement, General Lagbaja was quoted officially saying:

“That the troops were carrying out AERIAL PATROL when they observed a group of people and WRONGLY ANALYZED and MISINTERPRETED their pattern of activities to be similar to that of the bandits, before the DRONE STRIKE.”

Furthermore, looking at the picture of the maulud gathering (as shared online, and hereby attached), the decoration of the venue as well as their dressing among others, I strongly believe there could be a huge gap somewhere, either in the military personal, facilities or the data provided. I earlier shared some of the recommendations which the security agencies three years ago.

In addition, I also earlier conveyed my heartfelt condolences to their families and loved ones. In this comment (or flyer), I intend to briefly share some quick thoughts (the information is not classified as restricted) with the relevant authorities in all developing countries on how to improve precision and accuracy in using drones and other military gadgets during their operations. I do hope and pray my professional advice will save the lives of many innocent people in the future.

Firstly, this kind of mistake or negligence can easily be avoided in this era of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) or Industry 4.0 that we are witnessing through the use of emerging technologies or disruptive technologies. With emerging technologies such as the application of artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning, almost 100% accuracy can be attained while using drones for wars and other military operations.

Secondly, in the application of AI algorithms, the military can attain what is called “target identification” with almost 100% accuracy. Yes, the accuracy can be mostly 100%. The AI algorithm can effectively be used to analyse sensor data to identify, evaluate, and classify targets with almost impeccable precision and accuracy. It is also strongly recommended that when you are not 100% sure of the target to withhold the striking.

Thirdly, machine learning techniques as part of the industry 4.0 can also help in managing drones to recognise specific objects, such as criminals’ facilities, location, or vehicles, and differentiate them from innocent people or civilians.

Fourthly, fixed-wing, Tornado-S Multiple Rocket Launch System, Boeing MQ25 Stingray, MQ-9 Reaper (Predator B), and B. A. E System also achieves almost 100%, too. They mostly have state-of-the-art AI and machine learning inbuilt applications to achieve the desired result.

Fifthly, operating military drones requires advanced training and high-level demonstration of professionalism. Otherwise, unfortunate incidents will continue to occur. In addition, special technical training is key to the success of the drones to be operated by the drone pilots or what is called remote pilots.

In my yet to be unveiled book titled “Counter-terrorism through Cyber-security and Emerging Technologies,” the issues are extensively discussed and addressed.

May the Almighty prevent its reoccurrence in the future, guide our security agencies, and be merciful to the deceased ones.

Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami), CON, FCIIS, FBCS, FNCS,
Professor of Cybersecurity at the Federal University of Technology Owerri.