Stakeholders have sought ways to utilize the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in investigative reporting.
This was discussed at the Wole Soyinka Center for Investigative Journalism, WSCIJ’s 2nd edition of the Civic Space Guard programme.
The event themed “AI, Free Press, and Civic Space: Tools, Challenges and Future of Investigative Reporting” held on Wednesday 30th October in Abuja.
The event was moderated by moderated by Kimberly Nwachukwu, Broadcast Journalist, Nigeria Info 95.1, Abuja and Nten Ekpang, Editor, Trust TV.
In her remarks, the Executive Director, WSCIJ, Motunrayo Alaka, reiterated that although AI brings on board new tools to the scene of journalism, the rules still remain the same and as such ethics should be strictly followed.
“AI only brings new tools, but the same rules of journalism remain.
“No matter how great the resources at your disposal, you must follow the ethics of journalism.”
Speaking further, Alaka said that beyond holding government accountable, the media must hold leadership at various strata of the society.”
She also noted the media’s low report of Artificial Intelligence as a proud.
“The media is not reporting Artificial Intelligence enough as a product or as an event in history.”
Speaking on the limitation of AI, Nkem Agunwa, the Project Manager of Witness, noted that AI tools should be adapted to the global reality.
“The issue of inaccuracy in data and interpretation because of its lack of context is a great challenge.
“We need to advocate that these tools are adapted to the global reality outside the global north.”
She advocated for the responsible use of the media in the use of AI.
She added that the principle of transparency is paramount in the usage of AI while advocating for the media to embrace technological innovations
Journalist and activist, Chido Onumah, stated that investigative journalism is meant to expose societal ills.
Therefore, efforts must be made to protect those who are safeguarding the society.
The political secretary to Netherlands in Nigeria, added that when journalists are silenced, it affects the society.
“Free media is the oxygen of an open, safe & prosperous society.
“And so when journalists are silenced, when they are no longer free to speak truth to power, this suffocates all of us.
“The way we create, share and consume information is changing rapidly.
“This presents new challenges. Social media algorithms are becoming more influential in how we consume news content and make political choices.” She said.