• Says Kaduna’s mistake avoidable with AI, machine learning
Former Nigeria’s Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami), has sent a technical advice to the military on the use and operation of drones in combatting terrorism and insecurity.
This comes against the background of a recent drone strike by the Nigerian army which killed innocent Muslims mistaken for terrorists in Tudun Biri community in Igani Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Muslim News gathered that they were celebrating Mawlid Nabiyy when the sad event occurred.
The Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja, has, however, led a delegation of the Nigerian army on a condolence visit to the community, where he was quoted as saying that his men wrongly analysed and misinterpreted the activities of the Muslim group to be similar to those of bandits.
Reacting to the incident through a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Prof. Pantami who had earlier extended his condolences to the families of the victims shared some quick thoughts on how to improve precision and accuracy in using drones and other military gadgets during operation.
The Professor of Cybersecurity at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, said he had shared similar thoughts with the security agencies three years ago.
“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 personnel, 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.
Technical Advice to the Military:
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… pic.twitter.com/1BapgKkFPf— Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim, CON (@ProfIsaPantami) December 6, 2023
The former Minister said that the mistake in Kaduna could have been avoided by using technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning.
He wrote: “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 destructive 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 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, locations 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 achieve 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.”
Pantami hinted that these issues are extensively addressed in his yet-to-be-unveiled book titled “Counter-terrorism through Cybersecurity and Emerging Technologies”.
He prayed that the Almighty will prevent reoccurrence of the sad event, guide the security agencies and be merciful to the deceased.
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