Religious leaders in Nigeria have raised concerns about the unchecked advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), warning that it could erode human dignity and disrupt faith-based values.
At a press conference organised by the Nigeria Religious Coalition on Artificial Intelligence, clerics, and scholars emphasised the need for ethical considerations in AI development.
The event, held at the Institute of Church and Society in Samonda, Ibadan, on Thursday, gathered representatives from the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN), the Institute of Church and Society (ICS), Jama'atu Nasril Islam (JNI), and the Future of Life Institute (FLI).
Leading the discussion, Rt. Rev. S. Oluwole Onaleke, Bishop of the Diocese of Agodi, Methodist Church Nigeria, urged religious communities to actively engage in AI discourse.
“Artificial intelligence is shaping our world at an unprecedented pace, and we must ensure it aligns with ethical and spiritual principles,” Onaleke said, stressing the urgent need to bridge the gap between technological advancements and religious values.
The bishop highlighted concerns over AI’s unpredictable nature and its potential for misuse.
“AI is already making critical decisions in business, healthcare, and even military applications.
“Yet, there is no clear plan to prevent disasters or safeguard humanity from the risks of AI surpassing human intelligence,” he warned.
Onaleke traced AI-related fears back to science fiction, referencing Czech writer Karel Čapek’s 1920 play, R.U.R., where robots rebelled against their creators.
“While AI has moved from fiction to reality, its ethical implications remain largely unexplored, particularly in religious circles.
“Religious leaders have a duty to engage in these conversations and ensure that technology serves humanity, not the other way around,” he stated.
The bishop noted that AI’s presence is already deeply embedded in daily life, from virtual assistants to e-commerce recommendations and healthcare management.
While AI enhances efficiency, it also raises profound moral and theological questions.
“What happens when AI mimics human intelligence to the extent that we question our uniqueness?
“What does it mean to be created in the image of God if machines begin to exhibit human-like consciousness?” Onaleke asked.
The theological concept of Imago Dei, the belief that humans are created in God’s image, was central to the discussion.
Onaleke questioned whether AI with human-like reasoning could claim a form of divine likeness.
“If we create AI with human-like reasoning, do they share in the sacred identity of humanity? And if so, where does that leave us?” he pondered.
He also warned against AI becoming an object of worship or a tool for redefining humanity.
“Faith traditions are clear that putting trust in anything other than God is idolatry.
“AI should never replace our spiritual connection but should instead be used responsibly to enhance human life,” he asserted.
Highlighting the potential dangers of unchecked AI, Onaleke cited philosopher Erich Fromm, cautioning that “the future danger is not just that men may become slaves to technology, but that we may create intelligent systems that dominate us.”
The discussion also addressed the impact of AI-driven social media algorithms, which shape public opinion, religious engagement, and even charitable activities.
Onaleke urged faith leaders to take an active role in ensuring AI aligns with moral values.
“Religious institutions cannot afford to be passive. We must influence AI development before it influences us in ways we cannot control,” he said.
Given Nigeria’s deep religious heritage, Onaleke argued that the country has a unique responsibility to lead global conversations on AI ethics.
He called for policy measures that ensure AI serves society’s best interests while respecting religious traditions.
“Nigeria should advocate for international frameworks that prevent AI from undermining human relationships and dignity,” he proposed.
The press conference concluded with a series of recommendations from the coalition.
These included harnessing AI for beneficial applications in agriculture, education, and healthcare, while rejecting AI systems that disempower workers or manipulate faith communities.
The bishop also urged caution in applying AI to religious practices, warning that hasty implementation could dehumanise worship or mislead believers.
“Artificial intelligence is not inherently good or evil, it depends on how we use it.
“If guided by wisdom and faith, AI can be a tool for human flourishing. But if left unchecked, it could challenge the very essence of what it means to be human,” Onaleke concluded.
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