The ‘s inaugural AI safety panel has warned that scientists cannot dismiss the possibility of “catastrophic harm” arising from increasingly advanced artificial intelligence systems.

In its assessment, the panel said AI has the potential to deliver enormous benefits across sectors such as healthcare, education, scientific research, and economic development. However, it cautioned that the technology also poses significant risks if left without adequate safeguards.

The experts noted that while there is no consensus on the likelihood of extreme AI-related scenarios, the possibility of catastrophic outcomes cannot be ruled out, making proactive governance and international cooperation essential.

The panel urged governments, technology companies, researchers, and international institutions to work together in establishing robust standards for AI development, transparency, accountability, and risk management.

It also emphasized the need to balance innovation with public safety, ensuring that the rapid advancement of AI technologies does not outpace regulatory frameworks designed to protect societies.

The report comes as countries around the world intensify efforts to develop AI policies amid growing concerns over misinformation, cybersecurity threats, job displacement, privacy, and the long-term implications of increasingly capable AI systems.

The panel concluded that global collaboration will be crucial to maximizing AI’s benefits while minimizing risks that could have far-reaching consequences for humanity.

The National Youth Service Corps is set for a significant transformation as the Federal Government rolls out reforms aimed at improving the programme for future corps members.

The proposed overhaul is designed to strengthen the scheme’s relevance, enhance participants’ welfare, and better prepare young graduates for life after national service.

Among the key reforms expected are:

1. Improved Security Measures: Enhanced protection for corps members, particularly in areas facing security challenges.
2. Better Welfare Packages: Plans to improve accommodation, healthcare access, and general welfare during the service year.
3. Expanded Skills Acquisition: Greater emphasis on vocational training and entrepreneurship to boost self-employment opportunities.
4. Digital Service Delivery: Increased use of technology for registration, deployment, documentation, and other administrative processes.
5. Review of Orientation Camp Activities: Updates to orientation programmes to better reflect current national priorities and workforce demands.
6. Stronger Community Development Projects: Corps members will be encouraged to undertake more impactful projects tailored to the needs of their host communities.
7. Closer Collaboration With Employers: Efforts to connect corps members with employment and internship opportunities after service.
8. Enhanced Monitoring and Supervision: Improved oversight to ensure compliance with NYSC guidelines and improve participants’ experiences.
9. Modernisation of the Scheme: Broader reforms aimed at making the NYSC more responsive to Nigeria’s changing social and economic realities.

Government officials say the reforms are intended to preserve the objectives of national service while equipping graduates with practical skills, improving safety, and enhancing career prospects.

The changes are expected to be implemented in phases, with stakeholders expressing optimism that the reforms will make the NYSC programme more effective and beneficial for future participants.

Filmmaker and gospel minister Joshua Mike-Bamiloye has stated that productions by Mount Zion Faith Ministries are intended to celebrate, rather than demonise, Yoruba culture.

Mike-Bamiloye made the clarification amid discussions about the portrayal of traditional beliefs and cultural practices in faith-based films produced by the ministry.

According to him, Mount Zion’s movies are designed to highlight positive aspects of Yoruba heritage while conveying Christian messages and moral lessons. He stressed that the aim is not to attack any culture but to tell stories that inspire viewers and encourage positive values.

The filmmaker noted that Yoruba culture is rich in history, language, and traditions, and that many of these elements have been incorporated into Mount Zion productions over the years.

He explained that the ministry’s focus has always been on addressing spiritual and social issues through storytelling while maintaining respect for cultural identities.

Mike-Bamiloye also emphasized the importance of preserving indigenous cultures and languages, urging filmmakers to continue creating content that reflects Africa’s diverse heritage.

His comments have sparked conversations among movie enthusiasts and cultural advocates, with many praising the role of faith-based productions in promoting local narratives and traditions.

Mount Zion remains one of Nigeria’s most influential Christian film ministries, known for producing movies and dramas that combine entertainment with religious and moral teachings.