Here’s a quick rundown of what’s happening:
- Deepfake Danger: Tinubu warns that AI-generated deepfakes are a major threat to journalism and democracy.
- Government Response: Nigeria is partnering with UNESCO to establish a Media and Information Literacy Institute to combat misinformation.
- NUJ’s Role: The NUJ is urged to tackle fake journalism and uphold ethical standards.
- Osoba’s Call: Veteran journalist Olusegun Osoba calls for an updated database of genuine journalists to weed out impostors.
Is Nigeria’s Media Under Siege?
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, speaking at the NUJ’s 70th Anniversary Gala in Abuja, didn’t mince words. Represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, Tinubu emphasized that the rise of generative AI and deepfakes poses a “direct challenge to credible journalism.” In simpler terms, it’s getting harder to tell what’s real and what’s fake, and that’s a big problem for everyone.
Deepfakes, for those not in the know, are manipulated videos or audio recordings that can make it seem like someone said or did something they never did. Imagine a politician appearing to endorse something scandalous or a journalist reporting false information – that’s the power (and danger) of deepfakes.
Nigeria Fights Back: A New Institute for Media Literacy
The Nigerian government isn’t just sitting back and watching. They’re taking action by partnering with UNESCO to establish a Category-2 Media and Information Literacy Institute in Abuja. This institute aims to equip journalists and the public with the skills to identify misinformation and verify facts. Think of it as a school for spotting fake news.
Mohammed Idris stated that this institute will be a “transformative hub for building ethical journalism and informed citizenship in Nigeria.” It’s a proactive step, but is it enough to counter the rapidly evolving threat of AI-powered disinformation?
The NUJ’s Challenge: Cleaning House
Elder statesman and veteran journalist, Chief Olusegun Osoba, didn’t hold back either. He called on the Federal Government and NUJ leadership to urgently address the issue of fake journalism in Nigeria. According to Statista, the number of internet users in Nigeria is projected to surpass 187 million in 2028. Osoba warned that the credibility of the profession is at risk if impostors continue to undermine professional standards.
Osoba stressed the need for an updated and verifiable database of genuine NUJ members to weed out those falsely presenting themselves as journalists. He sees NUJ as the main body, calling other journalistic associations as just clubs.
Adapting to the Digital Age: Osoba’s Advice
Reflecting on his own career, Osoba recounted his transition from analogue to digital journalism, urging practitioners to embrace innovation. “Change is inevitable. Journalists must adapt to survive,” he said. It’s a call for journalists to not only understand the technology but also to use it responsibly.
NUJ’s 70-Year Journey: A Time for Reflection
NUJ President Comrade Alhassan Yahaya hailed the Union’s 70-year journey. He described the NUJ’s Platinum Jubilee as a moment of celebration, reflection, and renewed commitment to defending the role of journalism in Nigeria’s democratic journey. Amid ongoing insecurity, Yahaya urged journalists to maintain ethical standards, especially in conflict reporting.
The Road Ahead: Can Journalism Survive?
The warnings from Tinubu and Osoba paint a concerning picture. Deepfakes and disinformation are real threats, and Nigeria’s media landscape is at risk. The establishment of the Media and Information Literacy Institute is a positive step, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Journalists, government, and the public must work together to combat misinformation and uphold the truth.
The question remains: Can journalism survive in the age of deepfakes? The answer depends on the collective effort to prioritize ethics, embrace innovation, and defend the truth.
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