August 19, 2025
African governments and institutions have been tasked on confronting algorithmic bias in migration systems, with a warning that artificial intelligence (AI) and digital surveillance technologies are increasingly shaping how migrants are seen, categorized, and treated.
The call was made by Dr. Nduneche Ezurike, at the recent 3rd International Conference of the College of Management and Social Sciences, Fountain University.
In his paper titled “Migrant Identity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Technology, Surveillance, and Belonging,” Ezurike, argued that AI-driven systems are making invisible but far-reaching decisions that affect migrants’ rights, dignity, and belonging.
“Migrants are no longer simply seen as human beings with histories and hopes — they are being reduced to data points in opaque systems,” he cautioned that, “If we don’t address this digital profiling now, we risk automating discrimination at scale across the continent.”
The paper delved into border technologies such as facial recognition, predictive analytics, and biometric surveillance are increasingly being deployed by governments and international agencies, often without accountability or transparency.
Dr. Ezurike emphasized the need for African Union to create its own ethical frameworks for using AI in migration and public identity systems.
Earlier in a keynote address, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council at Obafemi Awolowo University, Prof. Siyan Oyeweso, highlighted the importance of democratizing digital access. He urged governments and institutions to recognize digital connectivity as a basic right, advocating for inclusive technology policies, local-language digital literacy, and gender-sensitive tech training.
“We must build compassionate technologies and inclusive digital communities,” Prof. Oyeweso said. “Our youth must learn that identity is culture, not conflict.”
Other high-level speakers included the Vice Chancellor of Abdul-Rasak Abubakar Toyin University, Prof. Abdul-Rauf Ambali, who stressed that ICT and digital platforms hold the key to unlocking sustainable development in Africa. He highlighted how digital governance can support inclusive growth, accountability, and economic resilience.
The host and Vice Chancellor, Fountain University, Prof. Olayinka Ramota Karim, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to global academic excellence and real-world relevance.
In her welcome address, Dean of the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences, Dr. Raheemat Adeniran, described the conference as a platform for engaging with pressing global issues through local lenses
