NITDA DG Calls for AI Task Force to Combat Crisis Misinformation in Nigeria
The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Malam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, has underscored the urgent need to manage crises differently in a digital age where technology is often weaponized by bad actors. Speaking at the 1st National Crisis Communication Symposium on Digital Innovation, Inuwa emphasized the critical role of governments in protecting citizens from misinformation, particularly during sensitive periods like elections.
The event, focused on “Managing Crisis in a Digital Age,” was organized by the Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC) and held at the National Defence College, Abuja.
In his keynote address, Inuwa described technology as neutral, but warned that its impact depends entirely on how it is used . He noted that crises, especially during elections, are often exacerbated by false news and AI-generated content.
The DG highlighted the interconnected nature of technology, showing how economic crises can be instantly triggered by social media. He cited a 2013 incident where a Syrian hacker’s tweet caused significant financial losses on stock exchanges. He also pointed to social movements and protests, such as the Black Lives Matter movement and the Arab Spring, as examples of social media’s profound influence.
Call for Regulation and Accountability
Inuwa raised concerns over the unaccountable power held by big tech companies, comparing it to historical periods of unaccountable authority. He highlighted the polarizing effect of social media on society and its influence on global elections, including the 2016 and 2020 U.S. elections, stressing the need for regulation and accountability.
He advocated for the establishment of independent crisis management centers to handle online content, emphasizing the importance of local understanding of culture and values in content review.
Inuwa detailed Nigeria’s efforts towards regulation, including: the creation of the Nigerian Data Protection Commission, the Online Harm Protection Bill and efforts to co-design and co-create regulation with all stakeholders.
In conclusion, the DG reiterated the need to harness the promise of emerging technologies while avoiding their perils through collaboration between government, civil society, and big tech companies.
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In his remarks the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mallam Mohammed Idris Malagi commended the Centre for Crisis Communication for hosting the National Symposium, describing the event as timely in an era where social media and artificial intelligence are increasingly shaping public engagement.
The Minister who was represented by the Director General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Jibrin Ndace said the gathering provided a crucial platform for dialogue on how Nigeria can strengthen its communication strategies during times of crisis. He noted that the rise of digital platforms has transformed the way information is shared, making responsible use of these tools more important than ever.
“This symposium could not have come at a better time. Social media and AI are now major tools of engagement, and we must ensure they are used responsibly to promote peace and unity,” the Minister stated.
Malagi urged citizens, institutions, and stakeholders to adhere to ethical standards and best practices in their use of digital technologies, stressing that effective crisis communication should serve as a tool for resolution rather than escalation.
The Minister expressed optimism that the symposium would become an annual event, saying he looked forward to the second edition next year, which he believes will further consolidate the progress made in building a resilient national communication framework.
In his welcome address, the Chairman CCC, Major General Chris Olukolade (Rtd.), said crisis communication has become a strategic national security asset essential to Nigeria’s emergency response.
He noted that modern crises unfold in real time and require technology-driven solutions. Olukolade said emerging tools enable faster early-warning detection, instant dissemination of verified information, countering of misinformation, and improved inter-agency coordination.
He added that the symposium aims to end institutional silos and build a proactive, predictive, and digitally powered crisis communication system.
Other speakers during the panel session included the Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan, Secretary General, African Public Relations Association, APRA; Mr. Musikilu Mojeed, Editor-in-Chief, Premium Times Nigeria, representative of Dr. Vincent Olatunji, Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Data Protection Commission, NDPC and that of the spokesperson of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) ACC Abdullahi Maiwada.
The symposium brought together key stakeholders including military officers, security personnel, responders, journalists, and other participants from across the country, all of whom contributed to discussions on strengthening Nigeria’s capacity for effective crisis communication.
By PRNigeria
