The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has issued a clarion call for the conscientious integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into society, emphasizing the imperative adherence to ethical principles. In a landmark address delivered at the inaugural Communication Week (COMWEEK) Public Lecture organized by the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) in Abuja, Lucius Ugorji, President of the CBCN and Archbishop of Owerri, articulated the nuanced stance of the Church on this rapidly advancing technology.
Titled “Artificial Intelligence: Challenges and Opportunities for Evangelisation and Social Development,” the event served as a platform for deep reflection on the implications of AI within the context of contemporary society. Ugorji underscored that while AI represents a remarkable stride in replicating human intelligence, it should be approached with caution, recognizing its limitations and potential risks.
Acknowledging the transformative capabilities of AI, which empower machines to undertake tasks previously exclusive to human cognition, Ugorji cautioned against overlooking the ethical and moral ramifications. He highlighted concerns regarding potential job displacement and emphasized the importance of striking a delicate balance between technological progress and human welfare.
The CBCN president advocated for collaborative efforts between AI experts and social development practitioners to harness the technology’s potential for the collective good. He envisioned a responsible and ethically guided utilization of AI, aligning with the Church’s mission of evangelization and societal advancement.
Moreover, Ugorji announced the CBCN’s intention to establish a dedicated platform for experts to deliberate on issues pertaining not only to the Church’s mission but also to broader societal welfare. This initiative reflects the Church’s commitment to engaging with contemporary challenges and leveraging technological advancements for positive social change.
In a supportive message, Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, echoed the sentiments of Pope Francis, emphasizing the necessity of ethical oversight in scientific progress. He cautioned against unchecked advancements in AI, emphasizing the importance of aligning technological development with moral and ethical imperatives.
Further insights were provided by Anthony Akinwale, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Augustine University, Ilara-Epe, Lagos, who underscored the distinction between AI and genuine human intelligence. Akinwale emphasized the need for a nuanced understanding of AI as a tool rather than a replacement for human agency, stressing the importance of ethical considerations in its development and application.
The CBCN’s call for ethical guidelines in the adoption of AI reflects a broader societal dialogue on the responsible integration of technology into daily life. As AI continues to reshape various facets of society, the Church’s proactive engagement underscores the importance of ethical reflection and moral guidance in navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies.
