Chrisland University

Academic Stresses Urgency of Advanced Technology Integration for National Security

Aug. 21, 2024 | Author | 0 Comments

Delivering at the University's 2nd Inaugural Lecture, themed “Who Are These That Fly As Clouds? Scaling Computing Metaphors,” Professor Odun-Ayo underscored the vital role of cutting-edge innovations like cloud computing, big data, and generative AI in modernizing the nation's defense mechanisms.

Professor Odun-Ayo stressed the importance of the Nigerian Armed Forces taking a leadership role in integrating these technologies to enhance security operations across land, air, and sea. He advocated for substantial government investment to build the necessary social and human intelligence infrastructure to combat threats from non-state actors effectively.

In a nod to current government initiatives, Odun-Ayo praised President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Infrastructural Development Fund. He proposed a complementary “Renewed Hope Science and Technology Development Fund” aimed at advancing cloud infrastructure and AI technologies. “The government must significantly boost public cloud spending,” he urged. “This investment should serve dual purposes: enhancing intelligence capabilities against hostile non-state entities and fostering local tech providers to ensure national data sovereignty.”

Emphasizing the need for comprehensive training, Odun-Ayo highlighted the importance of equipping all governmental and military sectors with the knowledge and skills to harness cloud and AI technologies. “Prioritizing innovation and technology will have far-reaching positive impacts across various sectors,” he noted. He also recommended that military and paramilitary curricula incorporate emerging technologies like cloud computing, quantum computing, and AI to maintain a strategic edge.

In a media chat after the event, the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Chinedum Peace Babalola, reaffirmed Chrisland University's dedication to equipping its computer science students with the skills needed to tackle future challenges. She emphasized the critical role of technology in effectively combating terrorism and ensuring national security.

Professor Odun-Ayo's lecture not only highlighted the pressing need for technological advancement in Nigeria's defense strategy but also laid out a clear roadmap for achieving it through strategic investments and comprehensive education.

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