By Raphael Kolawole, Southwest Nigeria
As artificial intelligence steadily reshapes media practice across the world, Nigerian journalism stands at a defining moment. AI is no longer a distant or abstract concept in newsrooms. It is already influencing how stories are researched, written, edited, distributed, and consumed. Yet, while conversations about AI are gaining momentum, the readiness of Nigerian journalists and media institutions to fully and responsibly harness this technology remains uneven.
The central issue today is no longer whether AI will become part of journalism. That question has been settled. The more pressing concern is whether journalists are adequately prepared to use these tools in ways that enhance accuracy, creativity, efficiency, and public trust. Without the right skills and ethical grounding, the promise of AI risks turning into a missed opportunity or, worse, a threat to journalistic standards.
Globally, news organisations are investing heavily in digital transformation. Journalists are being trained in data journalism, automation, AI assisted research, and audience analytics. Beyond technical skills, there is growing emphasis on AI literacy, helping journalists understand how algorithms work, where their limitations lie, and how to manage ethical concerns such as bias, transparency, and accountability. In many countries, continuous professional development has become a newsroom norm rather than an exception.
In Nigeria, however, training and capacity building have not always kept pace with technological change. Research conducted across Lagos, Kwara, and Edo States reveals a striking gap between awareness and actual usage. More than ninety percent of journalists surveyed agreed that AI has the potential to improve news accuracy, speed, and audience engagement. Yet only a small proportion reported using AI tools regularly in their daily work. This contrast points to a deeper structural challenge within the industry.
Journalists identified several barriers to adoption. These included limited technical knowledge, lack of access to training, concerns about ethical misuse, and the absence of clear institutional guidelines. In many newsrooms, the use of AI depends largely on individual curiosity and personal effort rather than structured organisational support. As a result, AI adoption remains fragmented and inconsistent, reinforcing inequality in skills and output across the media landscape.
Digital literacy further complicates the situation. Younger journalists, often more exposed to technology, tend to adapt more easily to new digital tools. Older or mid career practitioners, on the other hand, may struggle with advanced applications due to limited exposure or insufficient training opportunities. This disparity can create tension within newsrooms and limit collaborative growth. In contrast, more developed media systems actively address such gaps through regular training that brings all staff along, regardless of age or background.
The challenge is also evident in journalism education. Many mass communication and journalism programmes in Nigeria continue to focus heavily on traditional reporting techniques. While these foundations remain essential, the limited integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and automated storytelling leaves graduates underprepared for modern newsrooms. As media practice evolves, curricula must evolve with it, ensuring that students graduate with both strong journalistic values and relevant digital skills.
The absence of structured training raises serious ethical concerns. Journalists who lack a clear understanding of AI may rely too heavily on generated content without sufficient verification, context, or originality. This threatens accuracy, credibility, and public trust, which are the core pillars of journalism. AI should support journalists by enhancing research and efficiency, not replace critical thinking or editorial judgment. Achieving this balance requires deliberate and sustained education.
Despite these challenges, the current moment offers a significant opportunity. Media organisations, journalism schools, professional associations, and policymakers can work together to close the skills gap. Regular workshops, clear newsroom guidelines, updated academic curricula, and continuous learning programmes can empower journalists to move from passive experimentation to confident and responsible use of AI.
The future of journalism in Nigeria will not be shaped by technology alone. It will be determined by the competence, integrity, and adaptability of the people who use that technology. AI does not automatically guarantee progress. Without proper 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 an optional extra. It is a necessity. The credibility, sustainability, and relevance of Nigerian journalism depend on a future where technology is matched by knowledge, skill, and responsible practice.
By Raphael Kolawole is a freelance journalist and communication student at the Bamidele Olumilua University, Ikere Ekiti, Ekiti State