By Comfort Olayinka
As the world marked World Press Freedom Day 2025, journalists, media professionals, and thought leaders gathered in Abuja for a landmark lecture hosted by GreenLand News Magazine, with a focus on the theme “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media.”
The event spotlighted the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on journalism and press freedom, urging media practitioners to adapt responsibly in this rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Delivering the first keynote address, Princess Hajia Nana Hauwa Yussuff, Director General of the Kogi State Broadcasting Corporation, drew parallels between Aldous Huxley’s dystopian vision in Brave New World and modern AI. She warned that AI, if unchecked, could serve as a tool for subtle societal conditioning and control, influencing human behavior under the guise of progress and entertainment.
“Reportage in this AI-driven age must critically reflect on how technology shapes thoughts, values, and relationships,” she emphasized, adding that journalists must resist narratives that prioritize efficiency over truth and human dignity.
Dr. Oluwatoyin Eunice Ishola, Provost of the College of Community Health at Bingham University Teaching Hospital, gave a rousing second keynote, challenging journalists to seek proper training in AI tools. She stressed the need for ethical frameworks, algorithmic fairness, and transparency in AI usage within newsrooms.
“Disclosing when AI is used in content creation should be non-negotiable,” she noted. “We must build AI systems that respect journalistic integrity and democratic values through multi-stakeholder collaboration.”
In her welcome address, Amb. Dr. Peace Ofeoshi, Editor-in-Chief of GreenLand News Magazine, highlighted the numerous challenges confronting Nigerian journalists—from safety threats to financial instability. She decried the harassment, intimidation, and even abductions faced by reporters covering corruption, terrorism, and protests.
The event also honored distinguished Nigerians with the “Role Model Award” for their exceptional contributions to society. Honorees included Prof. Linda Kwon-Ndung, Comrade Engr. Maryann Ada Mbanaso, Princess Hajia Nana Hauwa Yussuff, Ismaila Isah, Dr. Aishat Umar, and Dr. Oluwatoyin Eunice Ishola.
Speaking on behalf of the awardees, Comrade Engr. Maryann Ada Mbanaso, Chairperson of PENGASSAN Women Commission, thanked GreenLand News Magazine for the recognition and urged fellow recipients to continue being forces for positive change.
Chairing the occasion, Dr. Aishat Umar of Bayero University underscored the media’s triple role as educators, informers, and entertainers. She encouraged the press to remain objective and resilient in the face of mounting pressures.
The lecture concluded with a call for robust support systems, ethical guardrails, and capacity building for journalists navigating the brave new world of AI.
