Religious Coalition Equips Journalists with AI Ethics Training in Rivers State

A non-governmental organisation, the Nigeria Religious Coalition on Artificial Intelligence (NRCAI), in partnership with the Future of Life Institute, has conducted a one-day workshop in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) and its intersection with religion for journalists. The training also covered effective reporting techniques and advocacy strategies aimed at mitigating overreliance on AI in Nigeria.

According to the Convener and Director of the Christian Council of Nigeria’s Institute of Church and Society, Ibadan, Very Rev. Kolade Fadahunsi, the workshop's objective was to foster the responsible and ethical application of artificial intelligence within the country. He stated, “This training is to encourage journalists to focus on the responsible use of artificial intelligence in Nigeria and ensure that AI supports morality, accountability, transparency, and protects our shared humanity.”

Fadahunsi underscored that AI should not foster division or diminish human cognitive abilities but should instead enhance human capabilities while upholding ethical principles. He urged journalists to prioritise rigorous fact-checking and to actively combat the spread of misinformation, particularly amidst the rapid advancement of digital technologies.

“We want analytical thinking to remain the standard, not unverified content that cannot be substantiated,” he added, highlighting the importance of maintaining critical evaluation.

The cleric also appealed to relevant government bodies, including the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), to implement the directives outlined in the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2025. He emphasised the need for robust institutional frameworks, such as an AI expert group and a regulatory commission, to oversee AI usage, enforce established standards, and implement penalties where necessary.

“When these structures are in place, they will regulate AI usage across sectors, including journalism, healthcare, education and agriculture,” he noted, explaining the broad applicability of such regulations.

Fadahunsi further stated that NRCAI is committed to promoting ethical AI development, grounded in core values like justice, compassion, accountability, and human dignity.

Echoing these sentiments, the Chief Imam of Imo State, Alhaji Suleiman Yusuf Njoku, advised journalists to maintain truthfulness and integrity in their professional conduct. He stressed that journalists bear a moral obligation to ensure the accuracy of their reports, recognising that their work has both ethical and spiritual ramifications.

“Journalists must ensure that what they disseminate is truthful and accountable, as they will be judged for their actions,” he concluded, underscoring the weighty responsibility of the profession.