Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has reiterated his administration’s firm stance on protecting press freedom, declaring that the media must be encouraged to stand for the truth at all times.
The Governor gave this assurance in his message to mark the 2025 World Press Freedom Day, observed globally on May 3.
In line with theme of this year’s celebrations, “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,”Governor Ododo noted the evolving challenges facing journalism in the digital age and the rise of artificial intelligence in news production calls for more due diligence and responsibility on the part of media practitioners.
According to Governor Ododo:
“In this brave new world, we must ask hard questions, who controls the narrative? How do we ensure accuracy in an age of machine-generated content? And above all, how do we protect the essence of journalism, its human judgment, ethics, and accountability?”
Governor Ododo affirmed his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for media professionals in the state, stressing that press freedom is not only a democratic necessity but a governance priority.
” Let it be known that our administration will encourage the media to stand for the truth and we welcome scrutiny done in the most responsible manner because we understand that good governance requires transparency. A silenced press is the enemy of progress but freedom without responsibility is more dangerous in any society.”
He urged journalists to embrace technological innovations while staying true to the core principles of professionalism, balance, integrity, and responsibility.
“Use technology to elevate your reach, not to compromise your ethics. Let us ensure that AI enhances journalism but should not erase its essence as a pillar of democracy,” he said.
He called on stakeholders across the country to support efforts to protect journalists and uphold editorial independence amidst rapid technological advancement propelled by artificial intelligence.
