The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has joined media professionals worldwide to mark the 2025 World Press Freedom Day, with a call for the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) by journalists.
At a commemorative event in Abuja, the NUJ FCT Council Chairperson, Comrade Grace Ike, emphasized the urgent need for Nigerian journalists to embrace technological advancements, particularly AI, without compromising press freedom and journalistic ethics.
She said the theme for this year’s celebration: “Reporting in the brave new world: The impact of Artificial Intelligence on press freedom and the media,” highlights the dual nature of AI’s influence, offering innovation in news production while posing significant ethical and regulatory challenges.
“Artificial Intelligence is transforming journalism, from content creation and audience engagement to fact-checking.
“But, it also raises serious questions about authorship, algorithmic bias, accountability, and the risk of automated censorship,” said Comrade Ike.
The NUJ chairperson urged journalists across Nigeria, to contextualize AI adoption within local realities and resist the erosion of media integrity by unchecked technology use.
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“We must not allow convenience to override the core values of our profession,” she warned.
The NUJ FCT leader commended ongoing efforts by government bodies, civil society, and international partners to promote press freedom and journalist safety in Nigeria.
However, she stressed that achieving a truly independent and ethical media landscape require stronger, and more deliberate actions.
Reaffirming the union’s commitment, Comrade Ike outlined plans to enhance professional standards, support ethical journalism, and boost digital literacy among journalists.
She also expressed the union’s willingness to collaborate with policymakers to ensure AI is integrated in ways that respect democratic norms and public interest.
“In this brave new world, journalists must work hand-in-hand with technologists, regulators, and the public to ensure AI empowers rather than manipulates,” she concluded, calling on media practitioners to recommit to truth, fairness, and courage.
World Press Freedom Day, celebrated every May 3, serves as a global reminder of the importance of press freedom and the responsibility of governments to uphold the right to free expression.
