Abuja: Experts in information technology have called for stronger security, governance, and ethical practices to build trust in artificial intelligence (AI). They made the call at the 18th Annual Conference of Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) on Monday in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the conference, themed ‘Reimagining Trust in the Age of AI’, was jointly organised by ISACA’s four Nigerian chapters: Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan. The Abuja chapter is set to host the 2026 edition of the national conference. President of ISACA Abuja Chapter, Sylvanus Ogenyi, emphasized the conference’s focus on building trust in AI and ensuring that technology remains safe for users. Ogenyi highlighted the increasing reliance on technology and the associated security concerns, particularly in Nigeria, which faces challenges such as hacking, unauthorized access to devices and accounts, and cyber-enabled financial crimes.
Ogenyi underscored the importance of creating a safer digital environment where technology can be used confidently. He encouraged a culture of prioritizing security in innovation. He further explained ISACA’s role as a global professional body advancing cybersecurity, information security, IT audit, governance, and risk management, with over 200,000 members worldwide and about 230 chapters globally.
Vice President of ISACA Abuja Chapter and Chairman of the conference organizing committee, Chigozie Mbagwu, addressed the impact of AI on perceptions of reality and trustworthiness. Mbagwu acknowledged the potential risks of improper AI use but dismissed concerns about job destruction, noting that AI could create more opportunities. He highlighted AI’s potential to improve efficiency and support sectors like healthcare.
Keynote speaker Dr. Ibrahim Waziri discussed AI’s role in risk management, advocating for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to ensure secure and governed technological advancements. Waziri pointed out the limitations of traditional regulatory processes in the fast-paced AI landscape and called for continuous engagement among regulators, service providers, and technology builders.
Esther Hamzat, Academic Relations Liaison for ISACA Abuja Chapter, highlighted the conference’s focus on empowering young people for the digital economy through a Youth Round Table. The event will provide career development insights from experienced professionals. Philip Deida, a volunteer with ISACA Abuja Chapter, noted the organization’s evolution beyond information systems audit and control to cover areas like risk management, governance, and innovation.
Deida emphasized the importance of understanding the technologies behind AI to build trust and ensure ethical adoption, benefiting society and contributing to national development. Hafsat Kaugama, Research and Marketing Director of ISACA Abuja Chapter, praised the conference’s preparation and teamwork, encouraging participation in ISACA’s professional community for valuable learning opportunities.
The conference also featured exhibitions and interactions among stakeholders in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem. It will conclude with a dinner and award night on Wednesday, followed by a post-conference workshop scheduled for August 27 and 28.