By: Eje Maria
The Senator representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, has called on journalists to adapt to the rapidly changing digital world especially on the embrace the Artificial intelligence AI.
Speaking at the Opening Ceremony/symposium organized to commemorate the 2025 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Ogun State Council, Senator Salis emphasized the importance of integrating technology into journalism practice.
While noting that artificial intelligence (AI) poses a threat to the journalism profession, Salis highlighted its potential to enhance the profession if properly harnessed.
He stressed that journalists must be equipped with the necessary skills to effectively utilize AI tools and verify the accuracy of information.
Senator Shuaib Salis, who is also the Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber security revealed that he has sponsored two bills aimed at promoting digital transformation in Nigeria and the bills have scaled through second reading.
He called for a review of the curriculum of mass communication and journalism training institutions to incorporate technology and prepare students for the digital age.
He also revealed that the President Bola Tinubu led federal government is set to deploy 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic broadband across the country, stressing that the initiative would cover all states, local governments and wards and that will go a long way in promoting a digitally compliance country which Nigeria is gradually becoming.
The senator promised to partner with the Ogun State Council of NUJ to train journalists on the adoption and application of AI in their daily reportage.
He emphasized the need for digital literacy, saying that journalists must develop digital skills to remain relevant in the industry.
In a keynote address, the Head of Service, Kehinde Onasanya, who represented Governor Dapo Abiodun, cautioned journalists to adopt AI carefully to avoid misrepresenting facts. He commended the NUJ executives for their achievements.
NUJ Chairman, Wale Olanrewaju, appreciated personalities who have assisted the union, including Governor Abiodun, Senator Salisu, and other notable figures.
By: Eje Maria
