Federal Government is currently developing a national policy framework on the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence in the media space.
The Federal Government is currently developing a national policy framework aimed at promoting the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the media space.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, during the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day.
According to the minister, the framework is designed to ensure that the benefits of innovation in AI are harnessed without compromising ethics, press freedom, and national security.
The theme of this year’s celebration, “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,” highlights the critical role of AI in shaping the media landscape.
The minister emphasized the importance of the media in shaping informed societies and underscored the need for a balanced approach to AI adoption in the media space.
By developing this policy framework, the government aims to promote a safe and responsible use of AI that supports press freedom, ethics, and national security.
Idris said, “We commemorate this day, let us all; government, media and civil society, work together to protect freedom of expression while embracing technology that advances, rather than diminishes the values we hold dearly.
“Let me reaffirm that President Bola Tinubu’s Administration remains deeply committed to upholding press freedom as a cornerstone of our democracy.
“A free and responsible media is the life blood of any democratic society; it gives citizens the power to express themselves freely and hold leaders accountable.
“In this new era, our resolve must be matched with action, through policies that promote media innovation while protecting journalists from the misuse of technology.
“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.
“This framework will ensure that innovation does not come at the cost of ethics, press freedom, or national security.”
Idris expressed concern about the growing threat of AI-powered misinformation, deepfakes, and disinformation campaigns, which are being used to exploit divisions and sow discord.
He emphasized that the media’s role as a gatekeeper of truth has become even more crucial in this context.
He urged the media to take a principled stand against falsehoods and manipulated content, protecting the information ecosystem from pollution.
“Media organisations must be vigilant and not allow their platforms, whether traditional or digital to be hijacked by subversive elements, terrorists, anti-state actors, or ultra nationalist groups, who seek to undermine our collective peace and the sovereignty of our nation.
“Granting such elements access to the public sphere without scrutiny, will not only endanger national security, but also erodes public trust in the media.”