Advocacy for robust policies to govern the deployment of artificial intelligence in Nigeria is intensifying, with experts warning that the lack of clear regulations could hinder advancements in key sectors, particularly background screening.
The disclosure was made in a statement on Monday following a webinar hosted by the Society for Professional Background Screeners.
Industry stakeholders convened to discuss the integration of AI into screening practices and emphasised the need for smarter implementation strategies that align with global standards while addressing Nigeria’s unique digital and data challenges.
The absence of comprehensive AI governance, experts noted, risks stalling progress in operational systems that could benefit from AI-driven efficiencies.
A prominent business analyst and AI strategist, Mr Henry Akinlude, underscored the urgency of policy reform during the webinar.
“Nigeria stands at a critical juncture where AI can revolutionise sectors like background screening, but without clear regulations, we risk falling behind,” he said.
Akinlude called for collaborative efforts between policymakers, industry leaders, and technologists to craft frameworks that ensure ethical and effective AI deployment.
Beyond technology, Akinlude highlighted challenges related to data maturity and digital literacy, urging business leaders and policymakers to educate the market and promote responsible use. “It’s not just about the tools,” he said. “It’s about building understanding, trust, and accountability.”
He also emphasised the importance of standardization, cautioning that without harmonized frameworks and verification methodologies, AI systems risk producing inconsistent or biased outcomes.
He reiterated that a structured, well-regulated implementation is vital for building a credible digital screening system.
Adding a security-focused perspective, an enterprise security risk expert and acting Chairman of SPBS, Dr Wale Adeagbo, supported Akinlude’s views but cautioned that AI must be deployed with clear safeguards to prevent misuse.
While recognising AI’s value in speeding up verification, he warned that without ethical guidelines and regulatory oversight, it could inadvertently expose sensitive data or reinforce biases.
He stressed the importance of collaboration between the private sector and government, stating that standardised models must balance efficiency with security to build public trust. “If people can’t trust AI-driven screening processes, it defeats the purpose,” Adeagbo said.
The SPBS webinar, part of the association’s commitment to advancing best practices, provided a timely platform for industry reflection. As a professional body, SPBS continues to champion accuracy, transparency, and ethical innovation in Nigeria’s background screening space.
