Tech

By Oluseyi Sodiya

In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping industries and daily life, the ethical implications of this technology have become a subject of paramount importance. While AI holds the promise of groundbreaking advancements, it also presents significant ethical challenges that society must address to ensure a responsible path forward.

The Promise of AI

Artificial intelligence has the potential to revolutionize various sectors, from healthcare and education to finance and transportation. In healthcare, AI can analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns and predict disease outbreaks, leading to earlier and more accurate diagnoses. In education, adaptive learning systems can provide personalized instruction tailored to each student’s needs, enhancing learning outcomes. Financial institutions are using AI to detect fraudulent activities and automate routine tasks, increasing efficiency and security. However, these benefits come with a caveat. The rapid deployment of AI technologies often outpaces the establishment of ethical frameworks to govern their use. This gap raises critical questions about privacy, bias, and accountability.

Privacy Concerns

One of the foremost ethical concerns surrounding AI is privacy. AI systems often rely on large datasets that include personal information. While these datasets enable AI to function effectively, they also pose risks to individual privacy. The use of AI in surveillance, for example, has sparked debates about the extent to which personal data should be collected and analyzed. To strike a balance, it is essential to develop robust data protection laws and ensure that AI systems are designed with privacy-preserving techniques.

Bias and Fairness

Another significant ethical issue is the potential for AI to perpetuate and even exacerbate existing biases. AI systems learn from historical data, which may contain biases reflecting societal inequalities. If not carefully managed, AI can reinforce these biases, leading to unfair outcomes. For instance, in hiring processes, biased AI algorithms may favour certain demographics over others, perpetuating discrimination. Addressing this issue requires a concerted effort to ensure that AI systems are trained on diverse and representative datasets, and that their decision-making processes are transparent and auditable.

Accountability

The question of accountability is also central to the ethical use of AI. When AI systems make decisions that affect people’s lives, who is responsible for the outcomes? The complexity of AI algorithms can make it difficult to trace the decision-making process, leading to a lack of accountability. To address this, it is crucial to establish clear guidelines that define the roles and responsibilities of AI developers, users, and regulators. Implementing mechanisms for auditing and monitoring AI systems can also help ensure that they are used responsibly.

Balancing Innovation and Responsibility

To harness the full potential of AI while addressing its ethical challenges, a balanced approach is needed. Policymakers, technologists, and society at large must collaborate to develop ethical guidelines that promote innovation while safeguarding human values. This includes investing in research on ethical AI, promoting transparency and accountability, and fostering public awareness about the implications of AI technologies.
In conclusion, as AI continues to advance, it is imperative to strike a balance between innovation and responsibility. By addressing the ethical concerns associated with AI, we can unlock its transformative potential while ensuring that it serves the greater good. The journey toward ethical AI is a shared responsibility, and only through collective efforts can we navigate the complex landscape of technological progress and human values.

By Anwar Usman

The Chairman of the Nigerian Automobile Technicians Association, Kano State Council, Yahya Ibrahim, on Wednesday, lamented over the negative impact of the fuel subsidy removal on the livelihoods of the association’s members.

Ibrahim, noted this during a courtesy visit to the Chairman, Rano Local Government Area, he explains that the severe poverty being faced by mechanics was as a result of the puel subsidy removal.

The Zonal Information officer, Rabiu Kura, in a press statementsaid “40 per cent of mechanics in Kano are out of business due to the fuel subsidy removal, a situation that rapidly led to the decline of patronage of motorists.”

He explained that low patronage from motorists, who are struggling with the ongoing economic challenges, has led to a significant decline in business.

He called on the Kano State Government to intervene and provide support to help mechanics stay afloat.

The visit coincides with preparations for the NATA’s upcoming local government council election.

Earlier, the association’s Secretary, Sani Umar, praised Governor Abba Yusuf for his readiness to establishing a mechanical village in Kano.

In his remarks, the council Chairman, Muhammad Yau, thanked them for the visit and prayed for a successful election.

By Zainab Haruna Abba

Social media has become an integral part of teenagers’ lives, but its impact on their well-being and mental health is a topic of concern.

Social media allows teenagers to connect with friends and family, share their thoughts and experiences, and access information and resources. It can also provide a platform for self-expression and creativity. Additionally, social media can be a powerful tool for raising awareness about important issues and promoting social change.

The impact of social media on teenagers can be significant. It’s not just a case of losing sleep and getting distracted during the day; social media can have far-reaching adverse effects on a teen’s mental health.

As the adolescent brain is still developing, it’s more vulnerable to time online. And since teens can sometimes struggle to self-regulate their screen time, their exposure and the risk of harm increases. As a result, teens’ social media use often correlates with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, envy and loneliness.

However, parents can take steps to encourage responsible use of social media and limit its negative effects. Setting reasonable limits on social media use is crucial. Parents should talk to their teens about avoiding interference with important activities such as sleep, meals, or homework. Establishing a bedtime routine that avoids electronic media use and keeping cellphones and tablets out of bedrooms is also essential.

Monitoring teens’ social media accounts regularly is vital. Parents should let their teens know they will check their accounts and follow through. Explaining what’s not okay to share or do online, such as gossiping, spreading rumours, bullying, or damaging someone’s reputation, is also important.

Encouraging face-to-face contact with friends is particularly important for teens who are vulnerable to social anxiety disorder. Parents should talk openly about social media and its potential impact, sharing their experiences and habits and asking teens how they use it and how it makes them feel.

Reminding teens that social media is full of unrealistic images can help mitigate negative effects. Parents can also help protect their teens by setting guidelines and teaching responsible use.

An estimated 4.9 billion people worldwide are expected to use social media in 2023. For teens who grow up with technology, those digital platforms are woven into the fabric of their lives.

“Social media is here to stay,” said Mary Alvord, PhD, a clinical psychologist in Maryland and adjunct professor at George Washington University and a member of the APA panel. That doesn’t mean we have to accept its dangers, however. “Just as we decide when kids are old enough to drive, and we teach them to be good drivers, we can establish guidelines and teach children to use social media safely,” Alvord said.

By Uzair Adam

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued a public clarification regarding its earlier statement on Starlink’s subscription price hike, stating that it was released in error.

Initially, the NCC expressed surprise at Starlink’s announcement of new subscription rates in Nigeria, asserting that the company had not obtained regulatory approval for the price increase.

The Commission acknowledged that while Starlink had submitted a request for a price review, a decision had not yet been made.

The original statement also alluded to potential regulatory infractions under the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003.

However, the NCC now clarifies that the previous statement was premature and has urged all media outlets to retract any related publications.

Reuben Muoka, the Director of Public Affairs at the NCC, stated, “We request that all media platforms kindly withdraw the previously issued statement on Starlink’s price hike, as it was issued in error.”

He further asked those who published the statement to remove it from their platforms.

The NCC remains dedicated to ensuring regulatory stability and creating a favorable environment for investment in the telecommunications sector, especially as stakeholders continue to call for a review of tariffs to encourage further investment.

The Commission appreciates the cooperation of the media and apologizes for any confusion or inconvenience caused by the earlier release.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Samsung is reportedly considering a major shake-up in its flagship Galaxy S line, potentially discontinuing the base model by 2026.

According to well-known leaker Ice Universe, the company may forgo the Galaxy S26 and instead launch only the Galaxy S26+ and Galaxy S26 Ultra in January 2026.

The alleged decision is driven by the base model’s decreasing competitiveness in the market, especially as Chinese brands prepare to release smaller devices with flagship-level specs.

While the Galaxy S25 is expected to hold its ground, its successor, the Galaxy S26, may struggle to remain viable.

This move would reflect Samsung’s strategy with its flagship tablet line, where the standard Galaxy Tab S10 was discontinued, which left only the Galaxy Tab S10+ and Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra.

While Ice Universe has a solid track record, this rumor should be approached with caution, as the source is known for occasional exaggeration.

If true, this development would mark a notable shift in Samsung’s flagship smartphone strategy, and will focus on premium models and potentially redefining the Galaxy S.

By Sabiu Abdullahi  

Xiaomi has secured the second position in Counterpoint Research’s global monthly sell-through volumes for August, surpassing Apple, which dropped to third place.

Samsung maintained its lead in the market.  

According to Counterpoint Research, Xiaomi’s shipment figures remained steady in August, while Apple’s seasonal decline in shipments, ahead of the iPhone 16 series launch, contributed to its declining market share.  

A Counterpoint analyst noted, “Xiaomi has been growing rapidly in 2024 with 22% year-over-year growth in sales volume.”

The company’s success in the sub-$200 price range has been a significant factor, driven by the popularity of the Redmi 13 and Note 13 series devices in key markets such as India, Southeast Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa.  

These devices have been instrumental in Xiaomi’s growth, and this soldiers the Chinese company’s position as a major player in the global smartphone market.  

The August sales figures demonstrate Xiaomi’s increasing influence and Apple’s pre-launch slowdown, setting the stage for intense competition in the smartphone market.

By Uzair Adam

Hope has been reignited in the minds of women entrepreneurs as the Chidoka family, through the Nneka Chidoka Outreach Program, awarded N100,000 grants to ten female small business owners in honor of their late mother, Nneka Chidoka.

The Daily Reality reports that the grants were awarded on what would have been her 76th birthday, continuing her legacy of support for women and small businesses.

Osita Chidoka, former Minister of Aviation and Chancellor of the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership, announced the initiative in a Facebook post on Friday, September 6.

He invited female entrepreneurs with small teams of 2 to 5 staff, operating home-based or small-shop businesses with a daily turnover of less than N100,000, to signify their interest.

“She would have been 76 years old today,” Osita wrote. “Are you a female entrepreneur? Do you have between 2 and 5 staff? Do you operate from your house or a small shop? Is your daily turnover less than 100k? Are you a Mekaria Mentorship Program Attaché? The first five women to respond and meet these criteria will receive a message from the Nneka Chidoka Outreach Program today.”

The response was overwhelming, with more than 50 women sharing their stories. Ten were selected based on the program’s criteria, receiving N100,000 each to support their businesses. One recipient, Nkechi Eze, a fashion designer, expressed her gratitude: “This support is a dream come true. It’s not just about the money; it’s about knowing someone believes in me and my business.”

The Nneka Chidoka Outreach Program, created in honor of Nneka Chidoka, who passed away in 2023 after a long battle with cancer, continues to promote her values of resilience, compassion, and community support. Led by her children, the foundation focuses on cancer awareness, screening, and treatment, as well as educational support for young people.

Since its inception, the program has screened over 2,000 women for cancer, provided free surgeries for more than 60 women, and supported over 1,000 individuals with various health interventions, including the distribution of corrective eyeglasses.

Additionally, during her memorial service, the program covered school fees for over 500 students in Obosi.

“Our mother’s life inspired us to be positive, considerate, and empathetic. The Outreach Program is a testament to her boundless strength and compassion,” said Osita Chidoka.

He also emphasized that the program is more than charity, reflecting his mother’s core values of community strength, education, and accessible healthcare.

In a similar act of generosity, the Chidoka family last year provided cash grants to over 100 petty traders in Obosi, Ozubulu, and Ohafia, fulfilling their mother’s wish to support female-owned businesses as a way to alleviate family poverty.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Xiaomi is reportedly working on a revolutionary button-less smartphone, codenamed Zhuque, which is expected to launch in the first half of next year.

According to sources, the phone’s standout feature will be its total lack of buttons, but it’s unclear what will replace them – possibly a combination of gesture controls, pressure-sensitive edges, or voice commands. 

The Zhuque will also boast an under-display selfie camera, a feature that has been attempted by Samsung with mixed results.

The phone will be powered by the upcoming Snapdragon 8+ Gen 4 SoC, an improved version of the 8 Gen 4 due to launch this October. 

The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 4 will also be used in the Xiaomi 15S Pro, expected to launch between April and June 2025.

While the button-less design may be a bold move, it remains to be seen whether the Zhuque will be a success or a niche product, like the Meizu Zero. 

As one source noted, “Remember the Meizu Zero? Exactly.”

This suggests that the Zhuque may face similar challenges in gaining widespread adoption.

However, Xiaomi’s willingness to innovate and take risks may pay off in the competitive smartphone market.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, has closed its Brazilian office due to a dispute with Supreme Court Judge Alexandre de Moraes over censorship.

According to X, Judge de Moraes threatened to arrest its legal representative in Brazil unless the company complied with his directives to censor certain content. 

Despite the office closure, X confirmed that its platform remains accessible to users in Brazil.

The dispute began when Judge de Moraes ordered X to block accounts accused of spreading misinformation, primarily supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro. 

X owner Elon Musk criticised the judge, leading to daily fines of $19,774 and potential legal consequences for X’s Brazilian representatives.

Musk is now under investigation for alleged obstruction of justice and other charges. 

X stated, “As a result, to protect the safety of our staff, we have made the decision to close our operation in Brazil, effective immediately.

The responsibility lies solely with Alexandre de Moraes. His actions are incompatible with democratic government.” 

Musk posted on X, “There was no question that Moraes needs to leave. If we had agreed to (Mr. Moraes) @alexandre’s (illegal) secret censorship and private information handover demands, there was no way we could explain our actions without being ashamed.”

By Ishaka Mohammed

The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy has invited schools, parents and guardians to register their wards for the Build-A-Thon Holiday Camp, three weeks’ training for secondary school students aged 10 to 18.

The Ministry said via its verified X handle that the training will be held in 14 states simultaneously from August 19 to 30, 2024 to immerse the schoolchildren in the global digital economy.

“Build-A-Thon is an initiative of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy with the goal of introducing students between ages 10 and 18 years to embedded systems and other emerging technologies, equipping them with future-proof skills that will make them key players in the global digital economy,” part of the post reads.

However, as opposed to the number of states (14) mentioned in the post, The Daily Reality noticed 15 states on the form. At the time of filing this report, The Ministry or its X handler has yet to respond to the enquiry about the difference between the figures.

The states on the form are as follows:

Gombe, Taraba, Yobe, Kano, Katsina, Niger, Kwara, Ogun, Osun, Oyo, Ondo, Imo, Abia, Anambra, and Cross River.

Earlier in January, the first phase of the programme was held in three cities (Owerri, Abeokuta and Maiduguri), targeting 1,500 senior secondary school students from 150 schools, who were introduced to Raspberry Pi, embedded systems, Artificial Intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT). The Cable reported that the participants built prototypes of smart homes, speedboats, automated parking lot, heartbeat monitor, digital timer alarm systems, electric car, smart doors, etc.

For the August phase, interested schools, parents or guardians can register their kids in the aforementioned states via this link: https://shorturl.at/nMgNn.