Nigeria has reaffirmed its dedication to promoting press freedom, ethical journalism, and media literacy as artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the global media landscape.
Speaking at the 2025 World Press Freedom Day commemoration in Abuja, hosted by Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) and the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, expressed the country’s commitment to navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. The Minister was represented by Dr Suleiman Haruna, Director of Public Relations and Protocol at the Ministry.
In his keynote address, Idris highlighted the dual impact of AI on journalism, acknowledging both its capacity to revolutionise newsrooms and the significant risks it poses to journalistic standards, truthfulness, and democratic accountability.
He observed that Nigerian media outlets are increasingly adopting AI for tasks such as accelerated reporting, data processing, and investigative work. However, he emphasised the need for a principled and cautious approach, given rising concerns over misinformation, algorithmic bias, and lack of transparency.
To help address these issues, Idris announced Nigeria’s plans to establish a UNESCO Category 2 International Media and Information Literacy Institute at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).
“With funding approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and support already pledged by several countries, the institute aims to become a global hub for advancing responsible media practices and critical thinking in the digital age,” he said.
He also revealed that Nigeria is in the process of formulating a national policy framework for the use of AI in the media sector.
“This initiative will encourage innovation while upholding press freedom and journalistic ethics.”
The Minister urged cooperation between journalists, media bodies, technology experts, policymakers, and civil society to develop ethical standards, invest in AI training, enhance content transparency, and promote widespread media literacy.
“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,” said Minister Idris. “This is not man versus machine but man with machine, working for the public good,” he added.
Marija Peran, the Resident Representative of Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, also spoke at the event, stressing the rising influence of AI in journalism and the imperative to protect media independence on a global scale.
She pointed out that while AI tools can boost journalistic efficiency and creativity, they also come with significant risks, including the spread of false information and a decline in public trust.
“As a global organisation committed to democracy, the rule of law, and good governance, KAS stands with the media in navigating this delicate balance,” she said.
Held under the theme ‘Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,’ the event focused on how AI is reshaping journalism in the digital era and the importance of safeguarding the foundational values of the press.