Accidental Bombings: US urges Nigeria to deploy AI in military operations
The United States Bureau of Arms Control, Deterrence, and Stability has urged Nigerian Military to consider the deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) during operations inorder to reduce accidental bombings like the one witnessed in Tudun Biri village of Kaduna State.
The centre made the proposal to help minimise the occurrence of miscalculated airstrikes,which resulted in the tragic deaths of over 400 innocent civilians between 2017 and 2023 in the country.
During a roundtable meeting with journalists in Abuja, the Centre’s Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Paul Dean, expressed profound condolences for the recent tragedy and highlighted the potential of AI to enhance military operations.
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Dean emphasised that AI adoption would not only enhance the Nigerian military’s capabilities but also align its practices with international humanitarian law, ultimately improving efficiency and decision-making while eliminating biases.
Dean also underscored the importance of responsible AI usage in military applications, noting that the international community should rally behind clear norms to ensure the technology is deployed in a predictable, transparent, and responsible manner.
He stressed that when states commit to this approach, they can maximise the benefits of AI while minimizing the risks associated with irresponsible use.
Furthermore, the Bureau expressed willingness to collaborate with the Nigerian government to address the proliferation of arms and ammunition in the country, highlighting their commitment to deterring conflict, promoting stability, and advocating responsible military conduct.
The partnership aims to address mutual interests, including the prohibition of chemical weapons, pursuit of nuclear stability, responsible use of outer space, and the advancement of regional security through risk reduction measures.
This collaborative effort underscores the joint commitment to leveraging AI for positive impact while upholding international norms in military applications.
It could be recalled that an airstrike by the Nigerian Army has killed over 100 civilians with others fatally injured in Tudun Biri, Igabi LGA of Kaduna State around 9 pm on Sunday.
The villagers were observing the Maulud celebration when the attack happened.
Reacting to the incident, Major General VU Okoro, the commander of 1 Division of the Nigerian Army and Force Commander of Operation Whirl Punch, admitted that the Army mistakenly dropped the bomb while conducting a routine operations against terrorists.