By Raphael Kolawole
As artificial intelligence continues to reshape media practice globally, Nigerian journalism finds itself at a critical crossroads. AI is no longer a distant or theoretical concept within newsrooms; it is already influencing how stories are researched, written, edited, distributed, and consumed. However, while discussions around AI are becoming more frequent, the level of preparedness among Nigerian journalists and media institutions remains uneven.
The key issue is no longer whether AI will become part of journalism—its presence is now inevitable. The more urgent question is whether journalists are sufficiently equipped to deploy these tools responsibly and effectively. Without the necessary skills, institutional support, and ethical grounding, the promise of artificial intelligence risks becoming a missed opportunity or, worse, a threat to journalistic integrity.
Across the world, news organisations are investing heavily in digital transformation. Journalists are increasingly trained in data journalism, automation, AI-assisted research, and audience analytics. Beyond technical proficiency, there is a growing emphasis on AI literacy—ensuring that journalists understand how algorithms function, where their limitations lie, and how to navigate ethical concerns such as bias, transparency, and accountability. In many advanced media systems, continuous professional development is now a standard newsroom practice rather than an exception.
In Nigeria, however, capacity building has not always kept pace with technological change. Research conducted in Lagos, Kwara, and Edo states highlights a significant gap between awareness and practical application. While over 90 per cent of journalists surveyed acknowledged AI’s potential to enhance news accuracy, speed, and audience engagement, only a small fraction reported using AI tools regularly in their daily work. This disconnect points to deeper structural challenges within the media industry.
Several barriers to adoption were identified by journalists, including limited technical knowledge, inadequate access to training, fears of ethical misuse, and the absence of clear institutional policies on AI use. In many newsrooms, AI adoption is driven by individual initiative rather than organised newsroom strategy. Consequently, usage remains fragmented and inconsistent, reinforcing disparities in skills and output across the media landscape.
Digital literacy further complicates the situation. Younger journalists, often more familiar with emerging technologies, tend to adapt more easily to AI-driven tools. Older or mid-career practitioners, however, may struggle due to limited exposure or insufficient training opportunities. This imbalance can create tension within newsrooms and hinder collaborative growth. In contrast, more developed media environments actively address such gaps through inclusive and continuous training that brings all staff along, regardless of age or experience.
The challenge extends to journalism education. Many mass communication and journalism programmes in Nigeria still place overwhelming emphasis on traditional reporting methods. While these foundations remain vital, the limited integration of emerging technologies—such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and automated storytelling—leaves graduates ill-prepared for the realities of contemporary newsrooms. As media practice evolves, academic curricula must also adapt, ensuring students graduate with both strong ethical grounding and relevant digital competencies.
The lack of structured training raises serious ethical concerns. Journalists without a solid understanding of AI may over-rely on automated outputs without adequate verification, context, or originality. This threatens accuracy, credibility, and public trust—the core pillars of journalism. Artificial intelligence should serve as a support tool that enhances efficiency and research, not as a substitute for critical thinking and editorial judgment. Achieving this balance requires deliberate, sustained education and clear professional standards.
Despite these challenges, the current moment presents a valuable opportunity. Media organisations, journalism schools, professional bodies, and policymakers can collaborate to close the skills gap. Regular training workshops, clear newsroom guidelines, updated academic curricula, and continuous professional development programmes can empower journalists to move beyond casual experimentation toward confident, ethical, and responsible use of AI.
Ultimately, the future of journalism in Nigeria will not be determined by technology alone, but by the competence, integrity, and adaptability of those who use it. Artificial intelligence does not automatically guarantee progress. Without adequate training and digital literacy, it risks deepening existing inequalities within the media industry.
As journalism continues to evolve in an increasingly automated world, investment in people becomes more urgent than ever. Preparing Nigerian journalists for the realities of AI-driven media is not a luxury or optional add-on—it is a necessity. The credibility, sustainability, and relevance of Nigerian journalism depend on a future where technological innovation is matched by knowledge, skill, and responsible practice.