The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has called for the ethical application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in media practice, as journalists across the globe mark the 2025 World Press Freedom Day.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, highlighted the growing influence of AI in news production and dissemination. She stressed the importance of embracing innovation without compromising the principles of press freedom and journalistic integrity.
This year’s theme, “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,” examines both the opportunities and ethical risks AI presents to journalism.
“Artificial Intelligence is reshaping how news is gathered, processed, and distributed,” Comrade Ike said. “While it improves content creation, audience targeting, and fact-checking, it also introduces concerns about misinformation, bias, loss of authorship, and potential censorship.”
She urged journalists to remain grounded in local realities, warned that excessive reliance on AI tools must not erode professional values or dilute the watchdog role of the press.
Comrade Ike commended ongoing efforts by government bodies, civil society groups, and international partners in safeguarding press freedom in Nigeria. However, she called for more decisive action to protect media independence and ensure the safety of journalists.
Reiterating the Union’s commitment to ethical standards, she announced plans to promote digital literacy and professional development among members, while engaging policymakers on AI governance in the media sector.
“In this era of rapid technological change, collaboration between journalists, tech developers, regulators, and the public is vital to ensure AI serves democratic goals, not manipulation or exclusion,” she added.
She concluded with a passionate call for media professionals to recommit to the core values of truth, fairness, and public service, noting that despite evolving tools, the mission of journalism remains unchanged.
World Press Freedom Day is commemorated annually on May 3 to celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom and advocate for the safety and independence of the media.
