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Lawmakers Explore Artificial Intelligence at Port Harcourt Session
The ECOWAS Parliament has urged member countries to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) to boost parliamentary efficiency, strengthen accountability, and drive democracy and sustainable development across West Africa.
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This call was made at the opening of the Second Parliamentary Seminar of the ECOWAS Parliament during its 2025 Extraordinary Session in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The seminar, themed “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Parliamentary Efficiency, Ethical Governance and Development in the ECOWAS Region,” brought together regional lawmakers to examine AI’s role in shaping governance and growth.
AI as a Tool for Democracy and Inclusive Growth
In her remarks, Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Hajia Memounatou Ibrahima, described AI as a “global competitive tool” that can strengthen democracy through improved regulatory frameworks and better communication between parliamentarians and citizens.
She emphasized that AI can accelerate social and economic development by improving service delivery, citizen engagement, and transparency.
Opportunities and Risks of AI in West Africa
West Africa’s growing tech ecosystem, coupled with national AI strategies such as Nigeria’s, is opening new opportunities in healthcare (AI for medical imaging), agriculture (AI-based flood forecasting), and education (personalized learning platforms).
However, the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) warned of the dangers of AI-generated disinformation, particularly in political contexts, stressing the need for strong governance frameworks.
Lawmakers and Leaders Push for Ethical AI Use
First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament and Deputy Senate President of Nigeria, Senator Jubrin Barau, called on lawmakers to deepen their knowledge of AI, identify risks, and develop ethical, responsible pathways for adoption.
“AI is reshaping governance, economies, and societies worldwide. For us, legislators entrusted with representation, lawmaking, and oversight, AI offers opportunities to enhance efficiency, strengthen accountability, and promote development,” he said.
Also speaking, Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, represented by his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, urged lawmakers to deliberate on legislation that ensures AI supports democracy rather than undermining it.
