By GARBA MUHAMMAD, Kaduna

The United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM) has successfully trained 52 Nigerian journalists ? including senior reporters, editors, and news producers ? from over 50 Voice of America (VOA) affiliate stations across Nigeria.

The intensive training, which took place from February 3 to 8, 2025, in Kano, equipped the beneficiaries with cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) skills. It marked a significant step in helping Nigerian journalists leverage AI tools for more efficient and ethical news reporting.

The programme, part of a broader series of AI training sessions across the country, is designed to modernise media operations and ensure Nigerian journalists remain competitive in the digital age.

Empowering Journalists with AI Knowledge

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr. Mohammed Sani USAGM Nigeria Marketing Representative and Independent Contractor, emphasized the importance of AI integration in journalism.

?Our goal is to ensure that journalists understand how to apply AI technology to optimize their work efficiently. AI is not a threat to journalism; instead, it enhances reporting capabilities and streamlines newsroom operations,? Dr. Sani stated.

Participants were trained by leading AI experts ? Celestine Achi, Oluwamuyemi Orimolade, and Thelma Okoh ? who guided them through hands-on modules covering AI-powered news gathering, media automation tools, and ethical considerations in AI-driven journalism.

VOICES FROM THE TRAINING

Dr. Sani on the Importance of AI in Journalism

?Our goal at USAGM is to empower journalists across various media organizations to harness AI technology and optimize their work. AI represents the latest advancement in ICT, and Nigerian journalists must seize the opportunity to be active participants in the global village.?

Bashir Sharfadi, Head of Radio News and New Media Unit, Freedom Radio Kano, on Enhancing News Production

?The knowledge I acquired from this training will enhance my ability to gather news, verify facts, reduce man-hours, and ultimately improve production quality. This course has significantly expanded my understanding of AI tools, and I plan to cascade these learnings at our station once I return.?

Mary Rwang, Staff, Plateau Radio Television Corporation, Jos, on Transforming the Newsroom

?The training was truly impressive and will undoubtedly elevate the quality of news production and broadcasting in our newsroom. My top priority is to implement everything I?ve learned and share this knowledge with my colleagues. I am committed to mastering these tools to fully integrate them into our daily operations.?

Celestine Achi, Lead Trainer, ?AI in News Gathering and Reporting? Module, on the Role of AI in Journalism

?AI is not our replacement ? it?s our amplifier. Beyond simply assisting with current processes, it opens up entirely new possibilities for interactive, personalized news experiences. No matter your previous enthusiasm for AI, now is the time to embrace learning how to work with it.?

Oluwamuyemi Orimolade, AI Specialist, on Revolutionizing Media Workflows

?AI tools are revolutionizing the media industry by automating repetitive tasks, enhancing content creation, and personalizing audience engagement. They empower media professionals to produce higher-quality content more efficiently. From automating video production to generating personalized content recommendations, AI streamlines workflows and frees up creative energy for more strategic work.?

Thelma Okoh, Trainer for ?AI and Media Ethics? Module, on the Need for Ethical Frameworks

?AI ethics and governance are essential for ensuring the responsible and secure development of AI technologies. By proactively addressing potential biases, privacy concerns, and other challenges, we can mitigate risks and build trust in AI systems.?

This provides a concise look into the insights shared by key participants and trainers, underscoring the transformative impact of AI on modern journalism.

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