Bauchi Govt Bankrolls, Trains 38 Members of NUJ Correspondents Chapel on AI, Investigative, Data Journalism
By Abbas Usman, Bauchi
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchí State has Called on Members of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) across the Country to adhere strictly to the core ethics and code guiding the profession in the performance of their duties as Mirrors of the Society.
The Governor made the call through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Comrade Muktar Mohammed Gidado while declaring open a two day workshop/ Training on Emerging Trends in Journalism Titled ” The Impacts on Modern Journalism, Practitioners”, held at the Yankari Games Reserve Bauchi.
The Governor who was a journalist before turning into Politics, urged his colleagues to uphold the principle of accuracy, credibility and ethical reporting amidst digital revolution.
He explained that one of the most significant shifts in journalism today is the rise of digital media, adding that news is no longer confined to newspapers, radio, and television as the social media, blogs and independent platforms now play a critical role in shaping public discourse.
” The speed at which information spreads today has increased, hence the challenge of misinformation and fake news. As journalists, it is our responsibility to uphold accuracy, credibility, and ethical reporting amidst this digital revolution”
“Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the way news is gathered, analyzed, and disseminated. Al-powered tools can generate reports, analyze trends, and even predict breaking AT news patterns. However, while AI can enhance efficiency, it cannot replace the core values of journalism-human judgment, investigative skills, and ethical considerations. Journalists must therefore adapt by integrating all, while maintaining the essence of responsible reporting”
“Despite technological advancements, the need for investigative journalism remains as critical as ever. In an era where misinformation can go viral within minutes, journalists must be more vigilant in verifying facts, cross-checking sources, and holding power to account. The integrity of journalism depends on how well practitioners uphold the truth in an age of misinformation”
“Another emerging trend is the shift toward journalists becoming personal brands. With social media platforms providing direct access to audiences, journalists are no longer just reporters: they are influencers and thought leaders. This brings both responsibility and challenges.
” Journalism is at a crossroads. The digital age presents immense opportunities for growth, innovation, and impact, but it also requires journalists to be more vigilant, adaptable, and ethical. As we discuss these emerging trends over, let us remember that while technology may evolve, the principles of journalism truth, fairness, and responsibility-must remain constant.
“The future of journalism lies in its ability to adapt while maintaining its fundamental principles. As we discuss and learn from one another during this workshop, I encourage you all to embrace innovation while ensuring that integrity remains at the heart of your profession.
“I commend the NUJ Correspondents Chapel for organizing this workshop and encourage all participants to engage actively in discussions that will shape the future of journalism in Bauchi State and beyond.
According to the Governor, “As a Government we appreciate the working relationship with the members of the correspondents Chapel and we commend you for your support in the reportage of the laudable policies and programs of the dynamic government of Bauchi State.It’s our hope that the future shall provide many more areas of good working collaboration” he said
He urged the participants at the training to engage actively in discussions that will help shape the future of journalism in the state and beyond.
The First resource Person at the training, Dr Andee Iheme who spoke on AI in Journalism, said that Artificial Intelligence is a paradigm shift in technology that journalists should not ignore while doing their jobs, pointing out that AI help journalists to fact-check information.
“AI is a paradigm shift you cannot ignore in Journalism, all you have to do is to know how to use it to improve your work.You need to develop knowledge by yourself because what AI is giving you as information has been inputed by people”. He said.
Dr. Andee, advised journalists to be conscious of the existing cultural and religious differences with its target and objective of enhancing socio-economic and political growth of the society as well as enhancing peace, unity and progress
In his goodwill message, the State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Umar Sa’idu commended the leadership of the Correspondents chapel in the state for utilizing the opportunity given to them by the state government to organize the training for it Members, saying that training and retraining of journalists is key to the growth of journalism profession.
Earlier in his welcome address, the chairman of the correspondents chapel Malam Ahmad Muhammad, called on members of the chapel to be conversant with the changing trend in the profession.
He commended Bauchi State government under the good leadership of Governor Bala Mohammed for supporting and providing conducive environment for journalists in the state to operate without hindrance, fear or harassment.
Dr. Nasir, GM Bauchí State Tourism Corporation and Mr. Demilola Oketunde, Editor BBC Africa also Presented Papers on Mass Tourism Relationship with Media and Data Journalism respectively.
