Nigeria Pledges Ethical Use of AI in Journalism at World Press Freedom Day Event
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in journalism, positioning itself as a leader in safeguarding press freedom and promoting media literacy in the digital era.
The pledge was made during the 2025 World Press Freedom Day celebration held at the Sheraton Hotel, Abuja, and jointly organized by Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) and the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID). This year’s event, themed “Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,” focused on the opportunities and challenges presented by AI in the media landscape.
Speaking on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, Dr. Suleiman Haruna, Director of Public Relations and Protocol, Federal Ministry of Information, highlighted the dual role of AI in journalism. While AI offers tools for enhanced reporting and investigative journalism, he cautioned against its risks, including misinformation, algorithmic bias, and threats to journalistic integrity.
As part of Nigeria’s response, Minister Idris announced plans to establish the UNESCO Category 2 International Media and Information Literacy Institute at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). The institute, backed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and supported by international partners, aims to become a global hub for promoting ethical media practices and critical thinking in the digital space.
Additionally, he revealed that a national policy framework on AI in the media is being developed to foster innovation while maintaining press freedom and professional ethics. He called for collaboration among media professionals, policymakers, technologists, and civil society to ensure transparency in AI use, promote media literacy, and uphold democratic accountability.
“As we embrace the future of AI-powered journalism, our collective responsibility is to ensure that freedom of the press is not undermined, but strengthened,” Minister Idris stated. “This is not man versus machine—but man with machine, working for the public good.”
In her remarks, Marija Peran, Resident Representative of KAS, emphasized the urgency of preserving media independence in the face of rapid technological advancement. She noted that while AI enhances journalistic output, it also raises ethical concerns, particularly around trust and misinformation.
“KAS stands with the media in navigating this delicate balance between innovation and integrity,” Peran said.
The event was attended by prominent stakeholders, including Hon. Akintunde Rotimi Jr., Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, as well as representatives from media organizations, civil society, and international partners.
