Chevron Nigeria Limited, CML, and the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory Council, have trained over 70 journalists on harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) to boost efficiency, quality reporting, and curb misinformation.
The training which was held in Abuja, with the theme, “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Journalism,” is aimed at building media practitioners’ capacity and enhancing their skills.
The General Manager, Policy, Government and Public Affairs, Chevron Nigeria Limited, Olusoga Oduselu, emphasized the media’s role as agenda-setters and opinion molders.
Oduselu highlighted Chevron’s commitment to human capital development and partnership with the media. He noted that the training aligns with the company’s efforts to add value to society and create value for stakeholders.
He said Chevron Nigeria believed in human capital development as the engine room of any organization and the society as well as expressed confidence in the partnership with NUJ FCT Council towards building the capacity of media practitioners to enhance their skills and abilities.
“As members of the fourth estate of the realm, your role as agenda-setters and opinion moulders cannot be over-emphasized. I want to thank you for your impactful role in reporting on the oil and gas industry and providing effective perspectives on complex industry operations,“ he said.
“We are always open to dialogue and further discussions if you require clarifications on a story that directly affects our company or the oil and gas industry.”
The Chairman, Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, Comrade Grace Ike, urged journalists to leverage AI to improve performance and productivity.
Comrade Ike emphasized AI’s potential in data analysis, fact-checking, and audience engagement.
She acknowledged Chevron Nigeria for sponsoring what she described as a “vital training” to empower journalists to harness AI’s potential while safeguarding the truth and trust that underpin our work.
“We stand at a transformative moment in the history of journalism. Artificial Intelligence, AI, is no longer a distant concept but a powerful tool reshaping how we gather, verify, and deliver news.
“AI enhances our ability to analyze vast data, detect misinformation, and engage audiences more effectively. It offers unprecedented opportunities to improve the speed, accuracy, and reach of our reporting.
“This strengthens the credibility of journalism by reducing errors and misinformation. AI also personalizes content for audiences by tailoring news feeds and recommendations based on reader preferences, thereby, increasing engagement and sustaining readership.
Resource persons at the training stressed the importance of journalists embracing AI, Freedom of Information Act, and mental health awareness in the era of social media.
The training is part of Chevron’s ongoing efforts to empower journalists and promote quality reporting in Nigeria.
