Enugu Gov urges ethical AI use in journalism
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has charged Nigerian journalists to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool for innovation, not a threat to creativity or truth. This was contained in a welcome address delivered on his behalf at the opening of the State House Press Corps workshop in Enugu on Thursday.
Speaking to members of the press gathered for the workshop themed *“Artificial Intelligence Utilization for Effective Journalism,”* the Governor described the media as the “conscience of the nation,” stressing that the role of journalists in holding power to account remains vital to democracy.
He said Enugu, with its historic ties to the Nigerian media since the pre-independence era, was a fitting location for the training. “There couldn’t be a more appropriate location for this media workshop,” he said, highlighting the state’s own strides in technology and governance reform.
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Governor Mbah emphasized the need for journalists to navigate the age of social media and artificial intelligence with caution and responsibility. While acknowledging that AI tools are already shaping everyday life—from digital maps to search engines—he warned against allowing automation to erode journalistic integrity.
“Artificial Intelligence is not the next frontier; it is actually with us now… But you must never be so reliant on Artificial Intelligence that it dulls your creativity,” the Governor said.
He also took the opportunity to spotlight some of Enugu State’s recent reforms, including the establishment of Smart Schools in all 260 wards aimed at equipping children with problem-solving and digital skills from the age of three. He said the transformation in education has been “mind-blowing,” as pupils are already using technology to tackle real-world challenges.
On infrastructure and public safety, the Governor cited the state’s Command and Control Centre, which provides 24/7 surveillance of major streets and neighborhoods. He also referenced reforms in the transport sector and agricultural development, stating that the administration is guided not by optics but by “a conviction that governance is a trust.”
Governor Mbah concluded by urging the press corps to return from the retreat with renewed editorial courage and a commitment to truth. “When governance is open, suspicion gives way to trust. And where there is trust, progress follows,” he added.
The workshop is part of broader efforts to enhance the capacity of journalists covering Nigeria’s State House and deepen their understanding of emerging technologies in media practice.
