….Tasks media to verify before amplifying AI-generated content
The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, has declared that in spite of the fact that Artificial Intelligence (AI) reshaping the way information is created, distributed, consumed and monetized globally, it cannot however replace truth.
He cautioned that the same technology could also make misinformation more sophisticated and difficult to detect, saying that AI has moved beyond being a futuristic concept as journalists are already using digital tools for research, analysing data, transcribing interviews and reaching audiences faster.
Maida emphasised that manipulated images, synthetic audio and misleading digital content can appear convincing even to experienced observers, thus making responsible journalism more important than ever.
Maida, who stated these on Thursday, September 3, 2026, while delivering a paper titled; ‘Artificial Intelligence, Digital Innovation and Responsible Reporting: The Role of Telecommunications Regulation in Nigeria’ at The Press Society (TPS) Media Sensitisation Workshop at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry Ikeja, cautioned journalists against allowing the growing sophistication of AI to compromise the fundamental principles of journalism, especially verification, accuracy and accountability.
In the words of Maida; “The obligation to verify information remains unchanged. Professional judgement remains indispensable. Credibility is still earned through diligence, evidence and accountability”.
The workshop with the theme; “Balancing Creativity and Ethics in the Media in the Community in the Era of Artificial Intelligence,” brought attention to the opportunities and challenges AI presents to modern journalism.
The NCC CEO also said that technological sophistication must never be confused with truth, thus tasked journalists to establish the origin and authenticity of information before amplifying it.
While underscoring the critical role of telecommunications infrastructure in supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation, Dr. Maida stated that the industry data published by the NCC indicated that Nigeria has approximately 179.64 million active telecommunications subscriptions as of May 2026, with more than 157 million mobile internet subscriptions and over 121 million broadband subscriptions.
The NCC EVC further said that the figures demonstrated how connectivity had become an essential utility for millions of Nigerians, adding that telecommunications networks now support virtually every aspect of modern life, including financial transactions, e-commerce, healthcare delivery, education, public services, entertainment and security.
Maida also said that the same infrastructure is critical to the functioning of AI and other emerging technologies, saying; “AI depends on data. Data depends on networks. Networks depend on infrastructure, investment, regulation and collaboration”.
Maida insisted that telecommunications regulation must evolve alongside technological advancement, stressing that the Commission’s objective was not to impede innovation but to ensure that it develops within a framework that promotes security, fairness and accountability.
According to Maida; “The Commission has continued to support initiatives aimed at strengthening consumer protection, cybersecurity and network resilience. A thriving digital economy cannot be built solely on technology. It must also be built on trust”.
The EVC of the NCC drew attention to the impact of fibre-cut incidents on communications services across parts of the country, stressing that disruptions to telecommunications infrastructure do not affect operators alone, but can disrupt businesses, emergency services, financial transactions, government platforms and citizens’ access to information.
Maida therefore urged journalists to strengthen their digital knowledge and professional capacity while adopting responsible approaches to AI-assisted reporting and therefore called for greater investment in digital literacy and professional capacity building.
He noted that modern newsrooms require both editorial excellence and a practical understanding of emerging technologies and their limitations.
Maida also tasked journalists to use their platforms to educate citizens about consumer rights, cybersecurity risks and the importance of protecting critical communications infrastructure.
He said that accurate reporting can also help citizens understand complex technological developments and promote informed public debate, stressing that Nigeria’s digital future require collective action by government, industry, educational institutions, the media and citizens.
Maida also said that while government must provide enabling policies, the industry must continue investing in infrastructure and innovation, while educational institutions must develop future-ready skills, and the media must continue to inform the public responsibly.
The EVC assured of the Commission’s commitment to broadband expansion, network resilience, consumer protection and innovation, as well as constructive engagement with the media and other stakeholders.
Maida further said that while the future of journalism may be increasingly digital, its fundamental purpose remains unchanged.
In the words of Maida; “Technology can accelerate the production and distribution of content, but it cannot replace integrity, sound judgement and a commitment to truth”.
