Safeguarding Press Freedom with AI: Minister Unveils New Policy

The Bola Tinubu administration is still dedicated to preserving press freedom while negotiating the difficulties of the digital age, according to a statement released on Saturday by Mohammed Idris, minister of communication and national orientation.

"We are reminded of the critical role the media plays in shaping informed societies, especially in an era increasingly defined by technology, as Nigeria joins the rest of the world in marking World Press Freedom Day 2025 with the theme 'Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,'" he said.

"Let's all—government, media, and civil society—cooperate to safeguard freedom of expression on this significant day while embracing technology that enhances, not diminishes, the values we cherish."

As a pillar of our democracy, press freedom is something that the Tinubu Administration is steadfastly dedicated to preserving. Any democratic society needs a free and responsible media because it allows people to express themselves freely and hold leaders accountable.

The minister claims that the new national framework will guarantee that media rights and ethical protections are balanced with AI innovation.

"We must be resolute in this new era and take action by enacting laws that encourage media innovation and shield journalists from technological abuse," he stated.

The Federal Government is presently creating a national policy framework on the responsible application of artificial intelligence in the media sector as part of this commitment.

This framework will guarantee that national security, journalistic freedom, and ethics are not sacrificed for innovation.

Idris cautioned that truth and democratic debate are in danger due to AI-driven information manipulation.

"The role of the media as a gatekeeper of truth becomes even more critical at a time when deepfakes, disinformation campaigns, and AI-powered misinformation are being weaponized to exploit divisions and sow discord," he continued.

"Reporting alone is insufficient; the media must adopt a moral stance to prevent lies and manipulated content from contaminating the information ecosystem."

The minister advised media outlets to remain vigilant and thwart attempts by subversive groups to control public conversation.