Rivers State Governor Fubara: “We’re Winning Our Political Battle with AI”

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, announced that his administration is triumphing in the ongoing political battle in the state with the strategic use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Governor Fubara made this statement on April 29, 2024, during a visit from participants of the Executive Intelligence Management Course (EIMC-17 Syndicate 5) from the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS). The visit took place at the Government House in Port Harcourt.

Speaking to his guests, Fubara outlined his administration’s approach, emphasizing non-violence even when faced with provocation. He remarked, “We are a government that does not believe in violence even when we are being provoked on all sides. What we want to use to fight our battles is AI. So, sincerely, we are winning with AI.”

The governor welcomed the visit, suggesting that it helps dispel negative rumors surrounding the state. “It will give us a good image as against what is being rumored everywhere—that the streets of Port Harcourt are being paraded by cultists, kidnappers, and all sorts of criminal elements,” Fubara said.

Governor Fubara highlighted his administration’s commitment to using AI to improve operational efficiency and transform citizen experiences. “Today, we are moving from the aspect of physical battle to intellectual battle, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the right model to use to fight crime,” he stated. He indicated that advanced societies are leveraging AI to make faster, data-driven decisions, and Rivers State intends to follow suit.

The visit was part of the EIMC’s study tour, with the delegation examining AI’s role in security and emerging economies in Africa. The head of the delegation, Didacus Egor Egbeji, who is also the Deputy Commandant of NISS, mentioned that the participants are strategic leaders who, in the coming years, will head their respective agencies. The information gathered during the tour will contribute to formulating policies that guide these agencies in their operations.

Governor Fubara pledged to maintain contact with the delegation to ensure a strong synergy that would benefit the state. He directed the Secretary of the Rivers State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, to continue liaising with the group, as their final report could inform the state’s strategies and planning. Fubara concluded his address by urging everyone to avoid politics of bitterness and focus on collaboration and teamwork for the common good.