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AI can’t replace human intelligence – Experts
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
Communication scholars and public relations practitioners have insisted that Artificial Intelligence cannot replace human intelligence in whatever guise.
KANO FOCUS reports that the experts made the revelation at the Annual General Meeting and Public Lecture of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Kano Chapter.
The experts opined that AI is designed to replace manual work effectively and quickly, it cannot override the need for human input in the workspace.
In his presentation on “Artificial Intelligence and Spin Doctoring in Public Relations Practice in Nigeria,” the guest speaker, Professor Abdalla Uba Adamu, questioned the hype surrounding the Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology.
A cross section of dignitaries at the event
He noted that even though the technology will aid human efforts in all endeavours, especially in the public relations practice, data collection, it is impossible for it to replace human intelligence, instinct, interactivity and creativity.
He added that there is no way the technology will have superiority over human abilities, since computer can remain exactly the same way in hundred years without human inputs.
“While artificial intelligence can change the field of public relations, it is not able to replace human intelligence and judgment.
“That human element necessary is not easily (if at all) replaceable by technology alone because successful PR strategies require the expertise and experience of skilled professionals.
A cross section of dignitaries at the event
“AI is a tool, not a human, and lacks the emotions needed when it comes to certain parts of the business.
Professor Adamu, nevertheless stated that AI has become an essential part of the business landscape as the ever-emerging technologies are presenting new opportunities for growth and development.
The university don also differentiated between spin doctoring and public relations, noting that while the duo share similar characteristics, but they are not interchangeable.
He referred to spin doctoring as ‘slanted information’, which bullies, punishes journalists for telling the truth, or for publishing authentic information about their principals, while public relations tries at all time to maintain cordial relationships over period of times.
LOC Members
“Spin doctors are professional media experts who work behind the scene to influence the media on behalf of their clients. Their job is to put an interpretation or slant on events or situations by providing a positive angle to a news story.
“In order to make politicians, political institutions, or corporations more attractive, spin doctors seek to frame their clients in a positive light by exercising some control over what is said about their clients and how it is said,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, the publisher of PRNigeria, Yushau Shuaib, noted that while public relation practitioners will not refer to themselves as ‘spin doctors’, they nevertheless enjoy enhancing positivity over negativity.
A cross section of dignitaries at the event
Shuaib who also stated that it is impossible for AI to replace human intelligence, he said the technology can only enhance the work of professionals in the areas of audience targeting, content generation, media engagement, online reputation management and crisis management.
He said that regular technological tools being used daily have AI features.
“The AI is nothing new if we realise that search engines, location search tools, spell checkers, reverse image app, computer games shared the same feature
“We can’t deny the fact that, AI saves time, increases efficiency, improves accuracy and enhancescompetetive advantages. It merely augments human intelligence but can never replace creativity, human interactions and natural instincts… one cannot fall in love with the Robot in real sense,” Shuaib concluded.
In his remarks, the President of NIPR, Dr. Ike Neliaku noted that humans are still immensely valuable in public relations because the need for creativity in interactions cannot be replaced by Artificial Intelligence.
A cross section of dignitaries at the event
He commended the NIPR Chapter in Kano and a Governing Member, Dr. Sule Yau Sule for facilitating the lecture on contemporary issues.
Other dignitaries at the occasion included the immediate President of NIPR, Mallam Mukhtar Sirajo a traditional holder Katukan Kano, Alhaji Habibu Bello Dankadai who represented the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero and other PR bigwigs and friends of the Institute.
Aminu Abdullahi Ibrahim
Bayero University Kano (BUK) on Monday celebrated the 50th anniversary of its Faculty of Education and inaugurated its Alumni Association at the Convocation Arena of the university’s new campus.
KANO FOCUS reports that the event was graced by government officials, education stakeholders, and alumni all gathered to commemorate the faculty’s contributions to Nigeria’s educational sector.
In her keynote address, the State Minister for Education, Mrs. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad announced the Federal Government’s Sector Renewal Initiative designed to transition Nigeria from a resource-based to a knowledge-based economy.
She highlighted that the aim of the renewal initiative consists of – Reducing the number of out-of-school children; combating learning poverty; nhancing skills development and human capital for the labor market
The minister noted that the initiative prioritizes Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET); Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM); Digital literacy and education quality assurance.
Mrs. Ahmad disclosed that the Federal Government had disbursed ₦35 billion to 261 beneficiaries under the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), with BUK among the top beneficiaries.
“So far, the scheme has received 420 applications, and we are scaling up investments,” she stated.
She further confirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved ₦120 billion to boost TVET programs, with plans to train 650 youths in technical, vocational, and digital skills over the next two years.
Emeritus Professor Sani Ahmad Sufi, former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, praised the faculty for its high-quality graduates.
“Our pride lies not just in the number of graduates produced yearly, but in their impact across Nigeria and beyond,” he said.
He added that the faculty has produced Nigeria’s largest pool of graduate teachers many of whom hold key positions nationally and internationally.
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje applauded the faculty for its significant role in advancing education in Nigeria.
The event concluded with awards presented to distinguished alumni and supporters of the faculty in recognition of their contributions to its growth.
Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has emerged as a beacon of hope for graduates left stranded due to the previous administration’s negligence regarding academic certificates.
His determination to rectify these injustices has culminated in decisive actions to secure the future of Kano’s youth. Ibrahim Adam, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Information, shared these developments with the media.
On December 9, 2024, Governor Yusuf traveled to Cyprus with a mission to obtain the overdue academic certificates for Kano students affected by the prior administration’s failure to meet its educational financial obligations.
During a critical meeting with the management of Near East University, the governor focused on facilitating the release of certificates for students who graduated between 2015 and 2019, particularly in essential fields like Medicine and Nursing.
This was confirmed by Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the governor’s spokesperson.
In a significant move, Governor Yusuf has settled the outstanding fees of €1.4 million (approximately ₦2.5 billion) owed to the university for 84 medical and2015 to 2019.
This substantial financial commitment honors the dedication and hard work of these graduates, restoring their hopes for a future that had previously been unjustly delayed.
According to Ibrahim Adam, the certificates are set to be handed over to the Kano State Scholarship Board through the Nigerian Ambassador to Turkey, marking a pivotal moment for the affected students.
Governor Yusuf acknowledged the challenges faced by the graduates, declaring, “This situation has been a significant setback for our children, hindering their dreams and aspirations, and it has also affected our state, which is in dire need of their expertise.”
His vision for a prosperous Kano is centered on prioritizing education, ensuring that talented individuals can make valuable contributions to the state’s advancement.
The governor’s proactive measures not only address the systemic issues in the education sector but also inspire renewed hope among Kano’s youth.
By fulfilling his promises, he emphasizes the crucial role of supporting young people in achieving their aspirations, which is vital to the state’s growth.
As this milestone is celebrated, it is evident that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s relentless pursuit of educational reform signals a transformative era for Kano State.
His administration’s unwavering focus on education stands as a vital investment in the futures of individuals and the overall development of the state.
Under his leadership, Kano State is poised to realize its full potential, with eager graduates ready to make impactful contributions to their communities.
Governor Yusuf’s commitment to empowering the youth serves as an enduring reminder that with dedication and decisive action, a brighter future is attainable for all.
Mukhtar Yahya Usman
Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has been named Governor of the Year 2024 (Good Governance) by Vanguard Newspaper, in recognition of his transformative achievements in the education and healthcare sectors.
The recognition was announced in a statement issued by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Saturday.
Governor Yusuf received the award at a prestigious event held in Lagos, where eminent personalities from across the country were honoured for excellence in leadership and service.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Chairman of the occasion, Atedo Peterside, emphasized that the selection process was based on merit and verifiable impact, commending the awardees for their outstanding contributions to national development.
Vanguard’s Editor-in-Chief, Eze Anaba, praised Governor Yusuf for setting a high standard in governance through his commitment, innovation, and focus on people-centered policies.
In his remarks, Governor Yusuf expressed gratitude to Vanguard for the recognition, dedicating the award to the people of Kano State.
He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to continue investing in sectors that directly impact the lives of citizens, especially education, health, and social welfare.
Other recipients of the Good Governance Award included Governors Umar Namadi (Jigawa), Charles Soludo (Anambra), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta) and Hope Uzodinma (Imo).
Governor Yusuf was accompanied to the ceremony by members of the State Executive Council, lawmakers, special advisers, local government chairmen, and close political allies.
This latest honour comes just four days after he received the Governor of the Year (Education) award from Leadership Newspaper.
The Governor is also scheduled to receive the Africa Good Governance Award from Heritage Times Magazine later this month in Morocco.
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