Prof. Nicholas Okpe Delivers PAAU’s 20th Inaugural Lecture, Advocates Human Dignity in AI Age
A Professor of Ethics and Values at Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, Rev. Fr. Prof. Nicholas Ojoajogwu Okpe, has called for the protection of human dignity as the fundamental ethical principle guiding the development and deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Prof. Okpe made the call while delivering the 20th Inaugural Lecture of the university on Tuesday at the institution’s auditorium.
The lecture, titled “Imago Dei: The Dignity of the Human Being in the Ethical Universum of 21st Century Artificial Intelligence,” explored the ethical, philosophical and theological implications of rapidly advancing AI technologies on humanity.
In his presentation, the renowned ethicist observed that technological innovations throughout history have continually challenged humanity’s understanding of itself, noting that the rise of Artificial Intelligence presents one of the most profound ethical and anthropological questions of the modern era.
He explained that Imago Dei—the Christian doctrine that human beings are created in the image and likeness of God—confers upon every individual inherent dignity, worth and moral responsibility.
According to him, any meaningful discourse on Artificial Intelligence must begin with a proper understanding of the human person, stressing that human dignity cannot be reduced to utility, performance or technological efficiency.
Prof. Okpe identified conscience as an indispensable moral compass in ethical decision-making, maintaining that no matter how sophisticated intelligent machines become, they cannot replace human moral responsibility, accountability and judgment.
Tracing the evolution of AI from Information AI and Agentic AI to Physical AI and the emerging concept of Conscious AI, the inaugural lecturer highlighted both the opportunities and dangers associated with increasingly autonomous technologies.
He warned that unchecked AI development could threaten human dignity through the instrumentalisation of persons, erosion of human autonomy, mass surveillance, invasion of privacy, economic displacement, algorithmic bias and the blurring of boundaries between humans and machines.
Drawing insights from theology, philosophy and ethics, Prof. Okpe argued that Artificial Intelligence must be developed and governed within frameworks that uphold justice, transparency, accountability, human rights and the common good.
He emphasized that technology should remain a servant of humanity rather than its master, insisting that whenever efficiency conflicts with human dignity, the latter must take precedence.
The scholar further advocated a global ethical and spiritual conversation involving theologians, philosophers, scientists, policymakers, technology developers and community leaders to collectively shape a human-centred future for AI.
He concluded that the future of Artificial Intelligence should be directed towards enhancing human creativity, wisdom, justice and compassion while preserving the sacred worth and dignity of every person.
According to a press release issued by Uredo Omale, Public Relations Officer, Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba,. Said the Chairman of the Inaugural Lecture Committee, Prof. Sunday Salifu Arogba, congratulated Prof. Okpe on attaining the prestigious academic milestone and commended his contributions to scholarship and ethical studies.
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Prof. Salisu Ogbo Usman, described the lecture topic as timely, relevant and intellectually stimulating, noting that Artificial Intelligence has emerged as one of the most transformative technologies of the 21st century with far-reaching implications for education, healthcare, governance, security, business and scientific research.
The Vice-Chancellor stated that the lecture underscored the responsibility of universities to provide intellectual leadership on emerging global challenges. He also praised Prof. Okpe for his scholarly contributions to ethical discourse, values education and character formation.
Prof. Usman further expressed appreciation to the Chairman and members of the Inaugural Lecture Committee for sustaining the university’s tradition of scholarship and intellectual engagement.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the inaugural lecture certificate, plaque and medal to Prof. Okpe in recognition of his academic accomplishments.
The lecture attracted members of the University Management, Senate, academic staff, students, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other distinguished guests from within and outside the university community.
