FISCAL DISCIPLINE, REVENUE DIVERSIFICATION CRITICAL FOR SUSTAINABLE DEV.- GOV UMO ENO

... as Senate President applauds his leadership style

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has emphasized on the need for states and local governments to embrace fiscal discipline and revenue diversification to achieve sustainable development.

The Governor stated this while delivering a public lecture on the theme: "Leading Economic Development in Sub-Nationals of the Nigerian Federation: The ARISE Agenda," at the University of Uyo.

He noted that the ARISE Agenda was borne out of the desire to grow the economy while developing abundant human resources in the State, focuses on eight lofty goals including; Poverty reduction, Job creation, Price stability,sustainable economic growth, improved standard of living, environmental sustainability, highly educated, healthy and skilled people, and the Security of lives and property

He further explained that the ARISE Agenda, a flagship economic blueprint that guides his administration's development efforts, is an acronym for ‘five-group aspirations’: Agricultural Revolution, Tourism Development and Environmental Management; Rural Development, Women & Youth Empowerment; Infrastructural Maintenance and Advancement; Security Management, Sound Educational and Health Sector Management; and Economic, Industrial and Social Advancement

The Governor who holds a Doctorate degree in Public Administration from the University, said that since the inception of his administration, wastages in government have been minimized, and the government is determined to expand its revenue base by digitalization of government operations.

"Soon, we will launch AKWAGIS, a digital platform where we will be collecting ground rent, which as we speak is in the region of N16 billion. Through this platform, we will be able to seamlessly offer Certificates of Occupancy, which would help attract businesses to our State.

"We are also investing heavily in the tourism sector that has been variously described as the “New Black Gold.” From agricultural tourism, through our Ibom Model Farm, to medical tourism, with our planned Ibom International Medical Centre - a 200-bed hospital that will come with 24 different departments under one roof. This hospital, once completed, will compare to any such facility anywhere in the world.

"The ARISE Resort, which we hope to commission in the first half of this year, the International Conference Centre, the Ibom Tropicana Hotel, which we are poised to complete will signpost our ascendancy as the tourism hub of our nation and bring in billions of Naira in revenue.

" We remain committed to the growth and expansion of Ibom Air and work is ongoing in the Aviation Village, as part of our investments in the aviation eco- system.

"We are committed to the human capital development of our people and this has been acknowledged by the Federal Government and the World Bank, leading to the launch two days ago, of the Human Capital Development Strategic Plan by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON.

"We have achieved a success rate of 3.5% out of school children, against the national average of 25.6% - a truly remarkable feat.

"We are positioning our State for growth beyond oil by these strategic investments in tourism and human capital development," he said.

The Governor said to ensure the success of economic development in sub-nationals, policymakers must develop action plans before implementation, strengthen governance and institutional capacity, enhance internally generated revenue (IGR) to reduce reliance on federal allocations, promote regional economic cooperation and trade among states, encourage private sector-led development through investment incentives, and focus on collaboration rather than conflicts.

He appreciated the crafters of the ARISE Agenda, and expressed his determination to go the extra mile to further development in the State, while urging policymakers, corporate bodies, the academia, and citizens to join hands with him in the journey towards a prosperous, self-reliant, and globally competitive sub-national economy.

In his remarks, the President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio applauded the Governor for his inclusive leadership disposition which according to him has engendered unprecedented peace and security in the State.

Senator Akpabio who was represented by Dr. Saviour Enyiekere, Chairman of the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC), also commended the Governor for his collaboration with the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government, and assured of the support of the All Progressives Congress in the State to ensure the Governor's second term victory in 2027.

Chairman of the Occasion, Emeritus Prof. Akpan Ekpo, the University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nyaudoh Ndaeyo and the Dean of the Host Faculty, Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof. Christopher Ekong as well as Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Prof. Peter Esuh appreciated the Governor for accepting to share his thoughts through the public lecture, stressing that the ARISE Agenda is a comprehensive document that can drive development in the State and other sub-nationals.

The event which attracted eminent personalities within and outside the State, had as discussants, Prof. Okechukwu Onuchukwu, Vice - Chancellor, Ignatius Aguru University of Education, Rivers State, and Prof. Ebebe Ukpong, a development expert and former Commissioner in the State.
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FISCAL DISCIPLINE, REVENUE DIVERSIFICATION CRITICAL FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVT -GOV UMO ENO

... as Senate President applauds his leadership style

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has emphasized on the need for states and local governments to embrace fiscal discipline and revenue diversification to achieve sustainable development.

The Governor stated this while delivering a public lecture on the theme: "Leading Economic Development in Sub-Nationals of the Nigerian Federation: The ARISE Agenda," at the University of Uyo.

He noted that the ARISE Agenda was borne out of the desire to grow the economy while developing abundant human resources in the State, focuses on eight lofty goals including; Poverty reduction, Job creation, Price stability,sustainable economic growth, improved standard of living, environmental sustainability, highly educated, healthy and skilled people, and the Security of lives and property

He further explained that the ARISE Agenda, a flagship economic blueprint that guides his administration's development efforts, is an acronym for ‘five-group aspirations’: Agricultural Revolution, Tourism Development and Environmental Management; Rural Development, Women & Youth Empowerment; Infrastructural Maintenance and Advancement; Security Management, Sound Educational and Health Sector Management; and Economic, Industrial and Social Advancement

The Governor who holds a Doctorate degree in Public Administration from the University, said that since the inception of his administration, wastages in government have been minimized, and the government is determined to expand its revenue base by digitalization of government operations.

"Soon, we will launch AKWAGIS, a digital platform where we will be collecting ground rent, which as we speak is in the region of N16 billion. Through this platform, we will be able to seamlessly offer Certificates of Occupancy, which would help attract businesses to our State.

"We are also investing heavily in the tourism sector that has been variously described as the “New Black Gold.” From agricultural tourism, through our Ibom Model Farm, to medical tourism, with our planned Ibom International Medical Centre - a 200-bed hospital that will come with 24 different departments under one roof. This hospital, once completed, will compare to any such facility anywhere in the world.

"The ARISE Resort, which we hope to commission in the first half of this year, the International Conference Centre, the Ibom Tropicana Hotel, which we are poised to complete will signpost our ascendancy as the tourism hub of our nation and bring in billions of Naira in revenue.

" We remain committed to the growth and expansion of Ibom Air and work is ongoing in the Aviation Village, as part of our investments in the aviation eco- system.

"We are committed to the human capital development of our people and this has been acknowledged by the Federal Government and the World Bank, leading to the launch two days ago, of the Human Capital Development Strategic Plan by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON.

"We have achieved a success rate of 3.5% out of school children, against the national average of 25.6% - a truly remarkable feat.

"We are positioning our State for growth beyond oil by these strategic investments in tourism and human capital development," he said.

The Governor said to ensure the success of economic development in sub-nationals, policymakers must develop action plans before implementation, strengthen governance and institutional capacity, enhance internally generated revenue (IGR) to reduce reliance on federal allocations, promote regional economic cooperation and trade among states, encourage private sector-led development through investment incentives, and focus on collaboration rather than conflicts.

He appreciated the crafters of the ARISE Agenda, and expressed his determination to go the extra mile to further development in the State, while urging policymakers, corporate bodies, the academia, and citizens to join hands with him in the journey towards a prosperous, self-reliant, and globally competitive sub-national economy.

In his remarks, the President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio applauded the Governor for his inclusive leadership disposition which according to him has engendered unprecedented peace and security in the State.

Senator Akpabio who was represented by Dr. Saviour Enyiekere, Chairman of the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC), also commended the Governor for his collaboration with the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government, and assured of the support of the All Progressives Congress in the State to ensure the Governor's second term victory in 2027.

Chairman of the Occasion, Emeritus Prof. Akpan Ekpo, the University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nyaudoh Ndaeyo and the Dean of the Host Faculty, Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof. Christopher Ekong as well as Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Prof. Peter Esuh appreciated the Governor for accepting to share his thoughts through the public lecture, stressing that the ARISE Agenda is a comprehensive document that can drive development in the State and other sub-nationals.

The event which attracted eminent personalities within and outside the State, had as discussants, Prof. Okechukwu Onuchukwu, Vice - Chancellor, Ignatius Aguru University of Education, Rivers State, and Prof. Ebebe Ukpong, a development expert and former Commissioner in the State.

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You can do the following to end malaria.

Make laws that provide incentives for health providers to reside and work in rural and hard-to- reach areas.

Provide effective monitoring and oversight for the health sector to ensure implementation and adherence to existing laws.

Legislators should appropriate sufficient funds for human resource in the health sector.

Continue to engage policy makers to address the problem of inadequate recruitment, training, distribution and capacity building of health human resources needed to achieve the goals of malaria elimination in Nigeria.

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BACKGROUND/HISTORY OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

The background of Artificial Intelligence (AI) encompasses various disciplines and developments. Here's a concise overview:

Philosophical Roots: Ancient Greek philosophers contemplated the nature of thought and reasoning, laying early foundations for the concept of artificial beings with intelligence.

Mathematical Logic (19th Century): Mathematical developments by logicians like George Boole provided a formal basis for symbolic reasoning, a crucial element in AI.

Computational Theory (20th Century): Alan Turing's work on computation and the Turing machine laid the groundwork for understanding what computers could achieve, influencing AI development.

Cybernetics (1940s-1950s): Pioneers like Norbert Wiener explored the parallels between human and machine control systems, influencing early AI researchers.

Dartmouth Conference (1956): AI as a field emerged with the Dartmouth Conference, where researchers envisioned creating machines capable of human-like intelligence.

Symbolic AI (1950s-1960s): Early AI focused on symbolic reasoning, using symbols and rules to represent knowledge and solve problems.

Connectionism (1980s): The idea of simulating neural networks and learning from data gained traction, leading to the development of connectionist models.

AI Winters (1970s-1980s): Limited progress and unmet expectations led to periods known as AI winters, where funding and interest in AI dwindled.

Machine Learning Resurgence (1990s-2000s): Advances in machine learning, particularly with statistical and probabilistic methods, rejuvenated AI research.

Big Data and Deep Learning (2010s): The availability of vast datasets and increased computing power fueled breakthroughs in deep learning, transforming AI applications.Understanding the background of AI involves recognizing the interdisciplinary nature of its roots, spanning philosophy, mathematics, computer science, and cognitive science. This rich history has shaped the diverse approaches and methodologies within the field.

TYPES OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be broadly categorized into three main types:-
1. Narrow or Weak AI
2. General or Strong AI
3. Artificial Super Intelligence

Narrow or Weak AI:- Definition: AI systems designed and trained for a specific task. Example: Virtual assistants like Siri or Alexa, image recognition software, and chatbots fall under narrow AI.

General or Strong AI:- Definition: AI systems with the ability to understand, learn, and apply knowledge across a wide range of tasks, similar to human intelligence. Example: True general AI does not currently exist, and its development remains a theoretical goal.

Artificial Super Intelligence (ASI):- Definition: An advanced form of AI surpassing human intelligence in every aspect. Example: Hypothetical and often discussed in the context of potential future advancements. It raises ethical and existential considerations. These categories can also be viewed in terms of AI capabilities:

Reactive Machines:- Follow predefined rules and respond to specific inputs. Limited to the programmed knowledge and lack learning capabilities.

Limited Memory:- Can learn from historical data to make better decisions. Common in applications like self-driving cars.Theory of Mind (ToM): Theoretical AI that could understand human emotions, beliefs, intentions, and apply this understanding to interact more naturally.

Self-Aware AI:- A level of AI that has consciousness and self-awareness, understanding its own state and existence. As of now, most AI applications fall under narrow or weak AI, with ongoing research aiming to advance the field toward the development of more sophisticated AI systems.

APPLICATIONS OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Artificial Intelligence (AI) finds applications across various industries, enhancing efficiency and enabling new capabilities. Here are some key areas of AI application:

HEALTHCARE:
1. Diagnostic Assistance: AI assists in medical image analysis for conditions like cancer.
2. Drug Discovery: Accelerates drug development through pattern recognition and data analysis.
3. Personalized Medicine: Tailors treatment plans based on individual patient data.

FINANCE:
1. Algorithmic Trading: AI analyzes market trends for automated trading decisions.
2. Fraud Detection: Identifies unusual patterns and activities to prevent fraudulent transactions.
3. Customer Service: Chatbots and virtual assistants handle routine queries and tasks.

TRANSPORTATION:
1. Self-Driving Cars: AI processes real-time data to navigate and make driving decisions.
2. Traffic Management: AI optimizes traffic flow and reduces congestion.

EDUCATION:
1. Adaptive Learning Systems: Personalize learning experiences based on individual student progress.
2. Automated Grading: AI assesses and grades assignments, saving time for educators.

RETAIL:
1. Recommendation Systems: AI suggests products based on customer preferences and behavior.
2. Inventory Management: Predictive analytics optimize stock levels and reduce wastage.

MARKETING AND ADVERTISING:
1. Targeted Advertising: AI analyzes user behavior to deliver personalized ads.
2. Predictive Analytics: Forecasts market trends and customer behavior for strategic planning.

CYBER-SECURITY:
1. Threat Detection: AI identifies and responds to cybersecurity threats in real-time.
2. Anomaly Detection: Monitors network behavior to detect unusual activities.

MANUFACTURING:
1. Predictive Maintenance: AI analyzes sensor data to predict equipment failures.
2. Quality Control: Computer vision systems inspect products for defects.

HUMAN RESOURCES:
1. Recruitment: AI automates candidate screening and identifies potential hires.
2. Employee Engagement: Analyzes employee data for insights into satisfaction and performance.

NATURAL LANGUAGE PROCESSING (NLP):
1. Chatbots and Virtual Assistants: Understand and respond to human language in customer support and information retrieval.

These applications showcase the versatility of AI, impacting diverse aspects of society and business by automating tasks, improving decision-making, and providing innovative solutions.

MERITS OR ADVANTAGES OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

The advantages of Artificial Intelligence (AI) include:
(a) Efficiency Improvement: AI automates repetitive tasks, enhancing productivity and efficiency in various industries.

(b) 24/7 Availability: AI systems can operate continuously without fatigue, providing round-the-clock services.

(c) Data Analysis: AI processes large volumes of data quickly, extracting meaningful insights and patterns.

(d) Precision and Accuracy: AI systems can perform tasks with high precision and accuracy, minimizing errors.

(e) Cost Reduction: Automation through AI can lead to cost savings by reducing the need for human labor in certain tasks.

(f) Task Automation: AI automates mundane and routine tasks, allowing humans to focus on more complex and creative aspects.

(g) Problem Solving: AI can analyze complex problems and provide solutions based on data and patterns.

(h) Personalization: AI enables personalized user experiences in applications like recommendation systems and targeted advertising.

(i) Medical Advances: AI aids in medical diagnosis, drug discovery, and personalized treatment plans, improving healthcare outcomes.

(j) Innovation Acceleration: AI drives innovation by enabling the development of new technologies and solutions.

(k) Risk Mitigation: In industries such as finance, AI helps in risk assessment and fraud detection, reducing financial risks.

(l) Language Processing: NLP applications in AI facilitate natural language understanding, improving communication with machines.

(m) Predictive Analytics: AI models predict future trends and behaviors, aiding in strategic planning and decision-making.

(n) Autonomous Systems: AI enables the development of autonomous vehicles and drones, enhancing transportation and logistics.

(o) Enhanced Customer Service: Chatbots and virtual assistants powered by AI provide instant and efficient customer support.

While these advantages are significant, it's essential to consider ethical considerations, potential job displacement, and the responsible development and use of AI to address challenges and concerns associated with its deployment.

DEMERITS OR DISADVANTAGES OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

The disadvantages of Artificial Intelligence (AI) include:
(a) Job Displacement: Automation through AI can lead to job losses in certain industries, potentially creating unemployment.

(b) Bias and Fairness Concerns: AI systems may inherit biases present in training data, leading to unfair or discriminatory outcomes, especially in areas like hiring and decision-making.

(c) Ethical Dilemmas: AI raises ethical concerns, such as the use of autonomous weapons, invasion of privacy, and the responsibility for AI-driven decisions.

(d) Security Risks: AI systems can be vulnerable to cyber-attacks, and malicious use of AI poses risks such as deep fake technology for misinformation.

(e) Lack of Creativity and Intuition: AI lacks true creativity and intuition, struggling with tasks that require a deep understanding of human emotions or abstract concepts.

(f) High Initial Costs: Implementing AI systems can be expensive, limiting access to certain technologies, particularly for smaller businesses.

(g) Data Privacy Issues: The collection and use of vast amounts of personal data for AI applications raise concerns about privacy and data security.

(h) Dependency on Data Quality: The effectiveness of AI relies heavily on the quality and representativeness of training data, which can lead to biased outcomes if not appropriately addressed.

(i) Complexity and Lack of Transparency: Some AI models, especially deep learning models, can be complex and challenging to interpret, leading to a lack of transparency in decision-making.

(j) Human Interaction Challenges: Human-machine interaction can be challenging, especially in situations that require emotional intelligence and nuanced understanding.

(k) Over-Reliance on Technology: Excessive dependence on AI may lead to a loss of critical skills and decision-making capabilities among humans.

(l) Limited Understanding: AI lacks true comprehension and consciousness, often providing answers without a genuine understanding of the context.

(m) Social Impact: The widespread use of AI may exacerbate social inequalities if access to AI technologies and benefits is not evenly distributed.

(n) Regulatory Challenges: The rapid advancement of AI technology poses challenges for regulatory frameworks to keep pace and address potential risks adequately.

Balancing the advantages of AI with these disadvantages requires careful consideration, ethical guidelines, and ongoing efforts to address emerging challenges.

APPLICATIONS OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Artificial Intelligence (AI) finds applications across various industries, enhancing efficiency and enabling new capabilities. Here are some key areas of AI application:

HEALTHCARE:
1. Diagnostic Assistance: AI assists in medical image analysis for conditions like cancer.
2. Drug Discovery: Accelerates drug development through pattern recognition and data analysis.
3. Personalized Medicine: Tailors treatment plans based on individual patient data.

FINANCE:
1. Algorithmic Trading: AI analyzes market trends for automated trading decisions.
2. Fraud Detection: Identifies unusual patterns and activities to prevent fraudulent transactions.
3. Customer Service: Chatbots and virtual assistants handle routine queries and tasks.

TRANSPORTATION:
1. Self-Driving Cars: AI processes real-time data to navigate and make driving decisions.
2. Traffic Management: AI optimizes traffic flow and reduces congestion.

EDUCATION:
1. Adaptive Learning Systems: Personalize learning experiences based on individual student progress.
2. Automated Grading: AI assesses and grades assignments, saving time for educators.

RETAIL:
1. Recommendation Systems: AI suggests products based on customer preferences and behavior.
2. Inventory Management: Predictive analytics optimize stock levels and reduce wastage.

MARKETING AND ADVERTISING:
1. Targeted Advertising: AI analyzes user behavior to deliver personalized ads.
2. Predictive Analytics: Forecasts market trends and customer behavior for strategic planning.

CYBER-SECURITY:
1. Threat Detection: AI identifies and responds to cybersecurity threats in real-time.
2. Anomaly Detection: Monitors network behavior to detect unusual activities.

MANUFACTURING:
1. Predictive Maintenance: AI analyzes sensor data to predict equipment failures.
2. Quality Control: Computer vision systems inspect products for defects.

HUMAN RESOURCES:
1. Recruitment: AI automates candidate screening and identifies potential hires.
2. Employee Engagement: Analyzes employee data for insights into satisfaction and performance.

NATURAL LANGUAGE PROCESSING (NLP):
1. Chatbots and Virtual Assistants: Understand and respond to human language in customer support and information retrieval.

These applications showcase the versatility of AI, impacting diverse aspects of society and business by automating tasks, improving decision-making, and providing innovative solutions.