NUJ VP, Senator, don canvass better deal for journalists, caution on AI use
BY ADEGBOYEGA STEPHEN
The President of Zone “B” of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Princess Ronke Afebioye-Samo, has joined eminent Nigerians to call for a better deal for journalists.
They also enlightened Nigerian media practitioners on the “gains and pains” of Artificial Intelligence use.
Afebioye-Samo spoke alongside the Senator representing Oyo North Senatorial district, Abdulfatai Tayo Buhari; and the Vice Chancellor of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, QAProfessor Razak Olatunde Kalilu, on Wednesday.
The event was the World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) public lecture organised by the Afebioye-Samo led executive of the NUJ Zone “B” at the Dapo Aderogba Hall, Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan Oyo State.
The union leader said press freedom was a catalyst for good governance, adding that good governance made dividends of democracy available in real terms.
She, therefore, called for free operating environment for journalism practitioners.
“Despite the challenges being faced by journalists in Nigeria, the NUJ remains committed to upholding principles of ethical journalism and promoting high standards of professionalism,” she said.
Speaking further, Afebioye-Samo said: “We are to reflect on the evolving media terrain and re-affirm the vital role of ethical journalism to safeguard truth and democracy, to explore the growing impact of Artificial Intelligence on journalism, media operators and press freedom, the rise of misinformation and the ethical hazards faced by media professionals.
“This lecture is put in place to commemorate 2025 WPFD themed ‘The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and Media,’ where press-friendly individuals or groups are identified and celebrated with the prestigious International Guillermo Cano Media Award.
“The day also honours journalists who risks their lives to bring truth to the public.
“WPFD is a unique celebration that is reminding everyone to protect and support the media because, without a free press, there can’t be a free society.
“This is a wake up call to all concerned that it is important for journalists to speak freely and be safe always.”
Senator (Dr.) Buhari, who was honoured with the International Guillermo Cano Media Award, in his lecture, noted that the advent of Artificial intelligence had reshaped how news is produced, disseminated and consumed.
He identified areas where the new technology would impact on news delivery as automation and efficiency, enhanced data analysis, personalised content delivery, and innovative storytelling.
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He, however cautioned that there were also disadvantages attached to the development.
“Artificial Intelligence does not only provide opportunities for innovation in the media. It also introduces profound challenges that threaten the integrity, independence, and credibility of journalism.
“One of the most alarming challenges posed by AI is the proliferation of false contents, especially deepfakes, synthetic media generated using deep learning techniques that can convincingly mimic real individuals’ appearances and voices,” he warned.
In his keynote address, Professor Kalilu also spoke in the same vein, calling on better environment for media practice and informed utilisation of Artificial Intelligence.
