In observance of World Press Freedom Day 2025, the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) hosted a session for Mass Communication students at Kano State Polytechnic, focusing on the increasing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in journalism and its impact on press freedom.
Themed “The Growing Influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Journalism and Its Implications for Press Freedom Globally,” the discussion explored how AI is reshaping newsrooms, raising concerns about ethics, job security, and press freedom in the digital age.
Ali Sabo, CITAD’s Digital Rights Officer, emphasized that while AI is a valuable tool for journalists, it also poses significant risks. “AI can generate content faster and cheaper, but it lacks human judgment,” Sabo explained. “This opens the door to misinformation, misrepresentation of facts, and even job losses in the media industry.”
He urged students to hone their editorial skills and learn how to use AI effectively. “Be creative, be innovative, and stay curious. Don’t allow technology to replace you—learn how to make it work for you,” he advised.
Ali Isa of MetroGate Innovations highlighted that AI is already assuming journalistic roles in other countries, a trend that is beginning to emerge in Nigeria.
“We are heading toward a future where journalists might not be writing the news themselves but supervising AI-generated content,” Isa noted. “Journalists need to understand the tools, detect algorithmic bias, and ensure that ethical standards are upheld.”
Isa stressed that while AI can support journalists, it should never control the narrative. “Journalism must remain human at its core—fact-checked, balanced, and accountable,” he said.
Salihu Sule Khalid, a lecturer in the Mass Communication Department, cautioned against the unchecked adoption of AI in newsrooms.
“AI can amplify powerful voices and marginalize others, thereby posing a risk to press pluralism and democracy,” Khalid warned. “It’s vital that journalists use AI with caution and uphold ethical principles.” He called on journalists to maintain independence, creativity, and critical thinking.
Maryam Muhammad, a lecturer at Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria, urged students to keep the public interest at the heart of their work. “The challenge is not the tool itself but how we use it,” she said. “Responsible journalism still depends on human values—truth, fairness, and accountability.”
The students also shared their perspectives. Fatima Ahmad, an ND student, expressed how the session broadened her understanding of AI’s impact on journalism.
“Before today, I saw AI as just a tech thing far from us. Now I see how it can affect my future job as a reporter. We have to learn it, but we also have to guide it,” she said.
Bashir Muhammad, a final-year student, voiced concerns about AI’s potential to spread misinformation. “If we leave AI unchecked, it could ruin the credibility of our profession. That’s why we, as future journalists, must be watchdogs not just of government but also of technology,” he cautioned.
The event concluded with a call for caution in integrating AI into journalism, emphasizing the need for a balance between technological advancements and ethical journalism to preserve the integrity of the press.
