A non-governmental organisation, the Nigeria Religious Coalition on Artificial Intelligence (NRCAI), in collaboration with the Future of Life Institute, has organised a one-day training on artificial intelligence (AI) and religion for journalists in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The coalition, comprising Christian and Islamic leaders, also trained participants on effective reporting and its advocacy for reducing overdependence on AI in Nigeria.
Speaking at the workshop, Convener and Director of the Christian Council of Nigeria’s Institute of Church and Society, Ibadan, Very Rev. Kolade Fadahunsi, said the programme was aimed at promoting responsible and ethical use of AI in the country.
“This training is to encourage journalists to focus on the responsible use of artificial intelligence in Nigeria and ensure that AI supports morality, accountability, transparency, and protects our shared humanity,” he said.
Fadahunsi stressed that AI should not create division or diminish human intelligence, but rather complement human capacity while preserving ethical standards.
He urged journalists to prioritise fact-checking and avoid the spread of misinformation, especially in an era of rapidly evolving digital technologies.
“We want analytical thinking to remain the standard, not unverified content that cannot be substantiated,” he added.
The cleric also called on relevant government agencies, including the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), to implement provisions of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2025.
According to him, proper institutional frameworks such as an AI expert group and regulatory commission are necessary to monitor usage, enforce standards and apply penalties where necessary.
“When these structures are in place, they will regulate AI usage across sectors, including journalism, healthcare, education and agriculture,” he said.
Fadahunsi noted that NRCAI advocates ethical AI development anchored on values such as justice, compassion, accountability and human dignity.
Also speaking, the Chief Imam of Imo State, Alhaji Suleiman Yusuf Njoku, urged journalists to uphold truth and integrity in their profession.
He emphasised that journalists have a moral responsibility to ensure accurate reporting, adding that their work carries ethical and spiritual implications.
“Journalists must ensure that what they disseminate is truthful and accountable, as they will be judged for their actions,” he said.
Blessing Ibunge
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