As the world marks the 2025 World Press Freedom Day on May 3, the Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has unveiled a visual brief spotlighting the urgent need for ethical and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in journalism, particularly within Nigeria’s media landscape.
The initiative, released under this year’s global theme, “Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,” examines both the opportunities and growing threats AI presents to media freedom in Nigeria and around the globe.
MRA’s Programme Officer, Mr. John Gbadamosi, said AI is transforming news production and dissemination by equipping journalists with tools to analyse data, translate stories into local languages, and improve access to information for underserved communities.
“AI can help extend the reach of essential news and information, especially to areas with limited media infrastructure,” Gbadamosi noted.
However, he cautioned that the same technology could be weaponised to undermine press freedom and democratic discourse.
“While AI can be used to advance journalism, it can just as easily be exploited to spread disinformation, create deepfakes, and drown out independent voices with algorithmically generated propaganda,” he warned.
Gbadamosi highlighted that journalists in Nigeria now face threats beyond physical violence — including digital, algorithmic, and systemic risks — and stressed the need to ensure that AI serves the cause of truth rather than distorting it.
The visual brief demystifies complex issues such as misinformation, disinformation, mal-information, and information overload, which are reshaping the country’s digital media environment. It also raises alarm over AI-enabled surveillance, political interference, and the potential marginalisation of grassroots journalists.
According to MRA, the brief advocates for support for independent media, context-sensitive AI regulations, widespread digital literacy, and increased accountability from tech companies regarding the influence and content of their platforms.
Gbadamosi called on stakeholders to commit to responsible AI practices and uphold a media environment that is free, professional, and vibrant.
“When media freedom thrives, democracy lives,” he said.
MRA’s visual brief is available online.