As part of its efforts aimed at enhancing the professional proficiencies of its members, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Chapter, in partnership with Chevron Nigeria Limited, organised a one-day training workshop on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in reshaping journalism.
The capacity-building programme with the theme; “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Journalism,” brought together selected journalists from different media organizations for a better understanding and appreciation of AI’s growing influence on news reporting, fact-checking, and audience engagement.
In his remarks at the opening of the training workshop, the General Manager of Chevron Nigeria’s Policy, Government and Public Affairs, Mr. Olusoga Oduselu, who was represented by the company’s Communications Manager, Victor Anyaegbudike, reaffirmed the commitment of the company to ethical journalism and professional growth through strategic media partnerships.
Oduselu said; “Chevron recognizes the value of investing in people. Since 2014, we’ve trained over 120 journalists through initiatives like this and the AWARES programme with Pan Atlantic University”.
He commended journalists for their continued efforts in covering the often complex dynamics of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and particularly highlighted Chevron’s ongoing support for sustainable development, citing initiatives in local content promotion, community development via Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs), and environmental sustainability through reduced emissions and gas flaring.
Earlier in her address of welcome, the Chairman of the NUJ, FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, noted that artificial intelligence is now a vital newsroom tool and not just a futuristic idea.
According to Ike; “AI is revolutionizing journalism—from automating transcription to detecting fake news and enhancing content delivery. But while embracing these tools, we must remain guided by journalistic ethics: truth, accuracy, transparency, and accountability”.
The NUJ Chairman further said that AI should be used to strengthen rather than compromise journalism, especially in combating misinformation and boosting productivity.
The ebullient NUJ Chairman commended Chevron for the sponsorship of the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that equips journalists with the needed skills to stay relevant and responsible in a rapidly evolving digital era.
The training featured practical sessions on using AI-powered tools in newsrooms, ethical implications of automation in reporting, and live demonstrations of AI-assisted newsgathering.
Forefront News reports that the workshop was part of Chevron Nigeria’s broader vision of strengthening democratic values by supporting a vibrant, ethical, and digitally-savvy media landscape.
