By Mercy Aikoye
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council marked World Press Freedom Day 2025. This year’s theme is “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media.” The NUJ FCT Council Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, highlighted the importance of journalists adapting to technological advancements while upholding press freedom principles.
Comrade Ike noted that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming news production and consumption. AI brings benefits like efficiency in content creation, enhanced audience engagement, and improved fact-checking. However, it also raises concerns about authorship, bias, accountability, and automated censorship.
The NUJ FCT Chair encouraged journalists to balance global digital innovations with local context. She warned that over-reliance on AI tools must not compromise journalistic integrity or undermine press freedom. Comrade Ike reaffirmed the constitutional guarantee of press freedom in Nigeria and appreciated contributions from government institutions, civil society, and international partners in advancing media freedom.
However, she emphasized that more efforts are needed to achieve a truly free and independent press. The NUJ FCT Council is committed to promoting ethical journalism, enhancing professional standards, and digital literacy among members. Comrade Ike expressed willingness to engage with policymakers to ensure AI integration aligns with democratic principles and public interest.
In her view, collaboration among journalists, technologists, regulators, and citizens is crucial. This ensures AI serves as a tool for progress, not exclusion or manipulation. Comrade Ike urged media professionals to uphold timeless values of truth, fairness, and courage. She noted that while technologies evolve, journalism’s mission to inform, enlighten, and serve the public remains unchanged.
World Press Freedom Day is celebrated annually on May 3. It reminds governments of their obligation to uphold the right to freedom of expression and celebrates fundamental press freedom principles.
The NUJ FCT Council’s message emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to AI in journalism. By promoting ethical standards and digital literacy, journalists can harness AI’s potential while safeguarding press freedom and integrity.
