By: Jamila Abubakar
The integration of artificial intelligence, AI in journalism has sparked debates on job security, with concerns that AI might replace reporters.
Many journalists also fear that automation could render their roles obsolete, reducing the need for skilled writers, editors, and investigative reporters.
However, a recent training program organized by the United States Agency for Global Media, USAGM and Voice of America, VOA is challenging this perception by demonstrating how AI is not here to replace journalists but to empower them.
The lead facilitator, Celestine Achi, addressed these concerns head-on, describing it as a tool designed to complement, not replace, human creativity.
He guided participants through AI-driven innovations such as automated transcription, fact-checking, and data analysis, showing how these tools can handle repetitive tasks while allowing journalists to focus on storytelling, critical thinking, and in-depth investigations.
One of the facilitators, Yemi Orimolade, elaborated on this by illustrating how AI can enhance newsroom efficiency without compromising the journalist’s role.
He shared real-world examples of how AI is already being used in global newsrooms to streamline workflows, freeing up reporters to concentrate on producing richer, more engaging content.
Another facilitator, Thelma Okoh, tackled another crucial aspect of AI’s role in fighting misinformation rather than spreading it.
She demonstrated how AI-powered tools help journalists verify sources, detect deepfakes, and fact-check stories in real-time.
By leveraging AI responsibly, reporters can ensure accuracy and uphold journalistic integrity.
Participants, including Zulfaat Rano and Nazeef Bakura, shared their experiences, highlighting how the training transformed their perspective on AI.
Throughout the sessions, media professionals engaged in hands-on exercises using AI-powered tools to refine their reporting techniques.
The facilitators reinforced that while AI can suggest ideas and organize information, human judgment remains irreplaceable in contextual analysis, ethical decision-making, and narrative depth.
The training also addressed ethical considerations, emphasizing that AI should be used to support journalism without compromising its core values.
Following the completion of the training, participants undertook a project to apply their newly acquired skills.
At the closing ceremony, they were awarded certificates in recognition of their efforts and successful completion of the program.
USAGM and Voice of America Nigeria’s representative and program coordinator, Sani Mohammad commended the enthusiasm of the participants, noting that their eagerness to learn and share knowledge aligns with the training’s goal of equipping journalists to step down the skills to others.
He also acknowledged the significant contributions of the facilitators in making the program impactful.
With initiatives like this, AI is proving to be a powerful ally rather than a threat in modern journalism, therefore, by integrating AI tools responsibly, journalists can create more impactful, accurate, and engaging news stories while preserving the integrity of their profession.
