The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting institutions and organisations advancing Nigeria’s media and cultural sectors as part of efforts to strengthen responsible communication, ethical journalism and national development.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, made this known at the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU) Safe Democracy Summit and Golden Honours held in Lagos.
The summit, themed “Electoral Integrity in an AI Era: Role of Responsible Media and Culture in Safeguarding Democracy,” focused on the challenges and opportunities artificial intelligence presents for democratic processes.
Represented by the Ministry’s Director of Public Relations, Dr. Suleiman Haruna, the Minister described RATTAWU as a strategic partner in nation-building.
He said the Federal Government, under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, remains committed to ensuring that technological advancement goes hand in hand with responsibility while protecting the rights and freedoms of Nigerians.
He also urged the media to promote electoral integrity and media literacy.
Delivering the keynote address, President of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria, Professor Rotimi Olatunji, called on media organisations to rigorously verify AI-generated content ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
He warned that while AI offers immense opportunities, its misuse could undermine electoral credibility, stressing that unverified images, videos and audio materials should not be published.
Also speaking at the event, President of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations, Dr. Ike Neliaku, described nation-building as a collective responsibility, while RATTAWU National President, Comrade Emeka Kalu, said the summit reflects the union’s commitment to promoting responsible media practice and democratic governance.
The event featured cultural performances and the presentation of the Golden Era Pillar of Logistics Excellence, Purposeful Entrepreneur, Philanthropy and National Development Award to NAGAFF President, Tochukwu Ezisi
Reporting by Victor Okiche