The Federal Government is developing a national policy framework on the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the media, aimed at safeguarding press freedom while addressing emerging threats such as deepfakes and disinformation.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, FNIPR, disclosed this on Saturday commemorating World Press Freedom Day 2025, themed “Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media.”
Idris said the policy framework is part of the Tinubu administration’s broader commitment to a free, responsible, and technologically adaptive press.
“The Federal Government is currently developing a national policy framework on the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence in the media space,” Idris revealed. “This framework will ensure that innovation does not come at the cost of ethics, press freedom, or national security.”
Reaffirming Nigeria’s dedication to press freedom, the minister described a free and responsible media as “the lifeblood of any democratic society.”
“It gives citizens the power to express themselves freely and hold leaders accountable,” he noted. “Our resolve must be matched with action, through policies that promote media innovation while protecting journalists from the misuse of technology.”
Idris raised concerns about the misuse of AI, warning that technology is increasingly being weaponised to spread falsehoods and manipulate public opinion.
“At a time when AI-powered misinformation, deepfakes, and disinformation campaigns are being weaponised to exploit divisions and sow discord, the role of the media as a gatekeeper of truth becomes even more critical,” he said.
He urged media organisations to remain vigilant against efforts by terrorists, anti-state actors, and other subversive groups to hijack public platforms.
“Granting such elements access to the public sphere without scrutiny not only endangers national security but also erodes public trust in the media,” he warned.
Idris called for a collective effort from government, media, and civil society to protect freedom of expression while leveraging technology responsibly.
