The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, joined the global media community today to mark the 2025 World Press Freedom Day, with a strong call for the responsible and ethical deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in journalism.
Speaking during a commemorative event in Abuja, NUJ FCT Council Chairperson, Comrade Grace Ike, emphasized the urgent need for journalists to embrace AI innovations while upholding core values of press freedom, accountability, and ethical reporting.
This year’s theme, “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,” examines how AI is reshaping the journalism landscape. Comrade Ike acknowledged AI’s benefits, including improved content creation, faster fact-checking, and enhanced audience engagement. However, she also highlighted risks such as algorithmic bias, loss of human authorship, and potential misuse for censorship.
“AI must be used as a tool to enhance, not erode, the credibility and independence of journalism,” she said. “We must be vigilant that technological convenience does not come at the cost of editorial integrity or public trust.”
She further stressed the importance of contextual awareness, urging Nigerian journalists to tailor their use of AI tools to local realities while adhering to global best practices.
The NUJ FCT Chair also recognized the role of stakeholders—including government bodies, civil society groups, and international partners—in defending press freedom and supporting journalist safety. Nonetheless, she called for more proactive measures to safeguard the rights and welfare of media practitioners.
Reaffirming the Union’s dedication to promoting ethical standards, digital literacy, and policy engagement, Comrade Ike pledged continued advocacy to ensure AI in media serves democratic goals.
“In this brave new era, collaboration between media professionals, technology developers, and regulators is key,” she noted. “Together, we must ensure AI supports inclusive, transparent, and credible journalism.”
World Press Freedom Day, celebrated annually on May 3, honors the essential role of a free press in democratic societies and underscores the responsibility of governments to protect the right to freedom of expression.
