The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has issued a stern warning about the potential dangers of Artificial Intelligence (AI), emphasizing the crucial need for caution and ethical considerations in its use.
The caution comes at a time coinciding with the Pope’s expected involvement in the G7 summit, where reports suggest he will advocate for an ethical framework for the development of AI.
During the inaugural Communication Week Public Lecture of the Catholic Church held in Abuja, CBCN President Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji underscored the necessity of ethical standards in AI development and deployment.
While acknowledging the numerous benefits of AI across various spheres of life, Archbishop Ugorji stressed the importance of approaching its development with ethical rigor.
He highlighted the church’s commitment to addressing the ethical concerns surrounding AI, aiming to raise awareness of both its positive impacts on society and the potential risks associated with its misuse.
Referring to the Vatican II Decree on the Means of Social Communication, Inter Mirifica no. 2, Archbishop Ugorji emphasized the church’s responsibility to educate the faithful on the ethical implications of technological advancements.
Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, commended Pope Francis for consistently highlighting the dangers of AI beyond church circles, noting the international community’s recognition of the Pope’s stance.
Onaiyekan emphasized the need for ethical control over scientific progress, echoing the Pope’s warnings about the potential pitfalls of unrestricted technological advancements.
In a thought-provoking lecture, Prof. Anthony Akinwale of Augustine University, Lagos State, argued that AI lacked consciousness and free will, essential components of true intelligence. He stressed the importance of ethical considerations in AI development and warned against the potential misuse of AI systems.
The discussion during the event centered on the need for a wise and responsible approach to AI development, with participants emphasizing the church’s role in guiding ethical decision-making in the context of technological advancements.
