Oluwafunbi Bello 
OYO, Nigeria – Nigerian journalists who fail to embrace artificial intelligence and digital tools risk becoming irrelevant in a rapidly evolving media industry, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) warns.
Speaking on Wednesday at a two-day AI training workshop in Ibadan, NUJ Oyo State Chairman Akeem Abas says technology will not eliminate journalism but will replace professionals who refuse to adapt.
“AI will not replace journalists,” Abas says. “It will only replace journalists who refuse to learn.”
The workshop, organised in partnership with American Open University Nigeria, trains 120 journalists in ethical AI use, digital storytelling and data-driven reporting. Organisers describe the initiative as a strategic response to shrinking newsroom jobs and rising misinformation.
Abas explains that digitally skilled journalists can expand beyond traditional reporting into roles such as media consultants, policy analysts and data communicators, serving governments, development agencies and private institutions.
He says AI opens doors to fact-checking platforms, investigative labs and niche digital media services, aligning journalism with Nigeria’s Digital Economy Agenda focused on innovation and human capital development.
“This is not charity,” Abas adds. “It is capacity building for survival in a changing economy.”
Oyo State Information Commissioner Dotun Oyelade acknowledges AI’s benefits but cautions against misuse. He points to the digitisation of land records under Governor Seyi Makinde, which he says helped boost internally generated revenue to ₦103 billion in 2025.
Acting Vice-Chancellor Dr Seyi Akanbi describes AI as “a solution only in the hands of good people,” urging journalists to use technology to combat misinformation and uphold public trust.
The training reflects a growing consensus that digital literacy is now central to journalism’s credibility and future in Nigeria.
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Mirian Gom 
Chukwu Obinna 
