By Anayo Okoli.

Ebonyi State Government said they would deploy Artificial Intelligence, AI, in running government affairs to enhance professionalism and accuracy in their official activities.

Governor Francis Nwifuru said this in Abakiliki at the 18th Eastern Zonal Conference of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, ICAN.

Nwifuru, noted that being a fast-rising state, Ebonyi would take the lead in deploying modern technologies to enhance administrative convenience and eliminate waste.

A statement from Dr. Monday Uzor, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor quoted him as saying:

“In our state, we recognize the importance of the accounting profession in shaping our financial policies and ensuring that public funds are utilized efficiently and responsibly.

“It is through your expertise and dedication that we are able to uphold the highest standards of financial management and governance. We are committed to supporting the accounting profession and creating an environment that fosters growth and innovation”.

He also noted that collaboration between the government and the accounting community is important in driving sustainable economic development.

He commended ICAN for thinking in the same direction as the state, staying the state finalised arrangements to deploy AI in all facets of governance.

“I firmly believe that the strength of our economy and the well-being of our society depend on the trust and confidence we place in our financial systems.

“Accountants play a vital role in this, ensuring that our businesses, organizations, and government entities operate with honesty and efficiency.”

Earlier, in his remarks, the 59th President of ICAN, Dr. Innocent Okwuosa thanked the Governor for attending the 3-day conference and commended his welfarist approach to governance.

He promised that ICAN as a body would continue to offer technical and professional advice that  facilitates development in the country