The Federal Government is developing a national policy framework to guide the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Nigeria’s media space, according to Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation.

The initiative is part of efforts to protect press freedom and journalistic ethics in a fast-evolving technological landscape, Idris says in a statement marking World Press Freedom Day, themed “Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media.”

Highlighting the significance of the media in shaping informed societies, the Minister warns that unchecked technological innovation must not compromise core professional values.

“As part of this commitment, the Federal Government is currently developing a national policy framework on the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence in the media space,” Idris says. “This framework will ensure that innovation does not come at the cost of ethics, press freedom, or national security.”

AI-powered misinformation campaigns are “being weaponised to exploit divisions and sow discord”

“As part of this commitment, the Federal Government is currently developing a national policy framework on the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence in the media space,” Idris says. “This framework will ensure that innovation does not come at the cost of ethics, press freedom, or national security.”

As AI continues transforming global media, the Information Minister stresses the rising threats from tools like deepfakes, disinformation, and AI-powered misinformation campaigns that are “being weaponised to exploit divisions and sow discord.”

“At a time when AI-powered misinformation, deepfakes, and disinformation campaigns are being weaponised to exploit divisions and sow discord, the role of the media as a gatekeeper of truth becomes even more critical,” Idris notes.

He reaffirms President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to upholding press freedom as a democratic pillar, while also cautioning media organisations to be alert to the dangers of digital manipulation.

“A free and responsible media is the lifeblood of any democratic society. It gives citizens the power to express themselves freely and hold leaders accountable,” Idris says.

Amid the growing weaponisation of information, he is urging media outlets to remain vigilant and not allow their platforms—traditional or digital—to be infiltrated by groups that pose threats to national peace and security.

“Media organisations must be vigilant and must not allow their platforms—whether traditional or digital—to be hijacked by subversive elements, terrorists, anti-state actors, or ultranationalist groups, who seek to undermine our collective peace and the sovereignty of our nation,” he warns.

The Minister calls for collaborative action between government, media, and civil society to responsibly harness technology while safeguarding freedom of expression.