Downgrading human judgement in the embrace of generative Artificial Intelligence invariably leaves gaps in critical decision makings and makes potential munitions available to cyber threats to thrive.
The Chairman of NGX Group, Alhaji (Dr) Umaru Kwairanga, underlined this while delivering a speech at the SUPERNEWS 2025 Artificial Intelligence Conference in Lagos at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Aware that this could happen and the unassailable view that a stand alone AI hand picks and dispenses dangers in its paths of automation service, Kwairanga said international regulators now stress the need for human oversight to complement AI automation. He clears, “AI may enhance efficiency, but human judgement must remain central to critical decisions. This calls for significant investment in workforce development.”
Creating a balancing scenario where AI does not outpace human capability though not at full circle yet he said human strides is continues. These efforts the NGX Chairman said still it fall short of AI demand. He explains how it plays out. “While more professionals are acquiring AI-related skills, demand still outpaces supply, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity to upskill and empower our people so that technology augments rather than replaces human capability.”
Another spere of control in the AI automation he stated, is collaboration across sectors, which he said “is also crucial to ensure AI governance frameworks protect the interests of consumers, investors, and markets. Global standard-setting bodies like the Financial Stability Board, ESMA, and IOSCO are leading the way, and Nigeria must align with these efforts to foster trust and stability. NGX Group remains deeply committed to these principles. We continue to explore how AI and other advanced technologies can help us build a capital market that is efficient, resilient, inclusive, and future-ready.”
To those that have embraced and those at the verge of integrated adoption he has this advice, “Yet as we embrace AI’s promise, we must also recognise the responsibilities that come with AI adoption. The rise of AI increases our exposure to cyber threats, with the financial sector facing a growing share of such attacks. Strengthening cybersecurity and operational risk management is imperative, particularly as reliance on third-party AI solutions expands.”
As a major user of AI Kwairanga goes at length to unveil its spread in its operation at the NGX and recommends same though with the earlier stated caution and responsibilities for responsible AI development. “At NGX Group, we see significant opportunities for AI to reinforce market operations. Enhanced trade surveillance powered by AI allows for more precise detection of market abuse, while intelligent analytics support better-informed decision-making by investors, issuers, and regulators. AI can improve transparency, sharpen disclosure monitoring, and strengthen market integrity, all vital for sustaining investor confidence.”
He speaks of AI adoption at NGX, “Through initiatives like NGX Invest, we have digitised the investment journey, making capital markets more accessible to retail investors and creating inclusive platforms that meet the expectations of a digital-first generation. The government’s commitment to responsible AI development, exemplified by the recent launch of the AI Scaling Hub with support from the Gates Foundation, further underscores Nigeria’s readiness to harness AI for national development, from education and healthcare to agriculture.”
Burrowing into the Conference topic, “Power of AI: Enhancing Efficiency and Customer Satisfaction for Better Financial Services Experience” he said, “As we reflect on AI’s role in reshaping financial services, we must also consider its potential to advance broader goals such as sustainable development. At NGX Group, sustainability is not just a catchphrase, it is central to who we are. We see Artificial Intelligence not only as a tool for improving operational efficiency but as a powerful enabler of sustainable finance. AI allows us to deepen our impact through innovations such as green bonds, climate risk reporting, and financing for inclusive, long-term growth. It empowers investors and issuers to align capital flows with development goals and to make decisions that reflect global best practices and the Sustainable Development Goals.”
