Nigerian Media leaders call for empowerment of journalists with tools for effective utilization of artificial intelligence

The Nigerian Media Leaders converged in Abeokuta, Ogun State Capital for a summit with a resolution on need in empowering journalists with the skills and tools to effectively utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) among others.

Penpushing reports that the summit which was the third edition attracted 60 participants across the country with the theme “Market Squared: Turning connections into Gold in the AI age’, featured insightful presentations, panel discussions, and workshops focused on navigating the evolving media landscape and harnessing the power of artificial intelligence.

The Convener who is the Founder/Director of The Journalism Clinic, Taiwo Obe in his welcome speech pointed out the urgent need for media professionals to adapt and innovate in the face of digital disruption.

Penpushing further reports that the veteran journalist explained that the whole idea of the summit is to bring Nigerian journalists to the reality of digital journalism and underscored the importance of audience engagement and community building in the fragmented media ecosystem.

‘You will agree with me that we are in a running crisis reach, revenue and relevance. This summit is an opportunity to rethink our business, so that we can still be relevant. Let us join hands together on the mission’, Obe emphasized

Penpushing also reports that, Principal Consultant at DKO Consultant, Dolapo Otegbayi in her presentation explored the theme of “You and Your Market,” and urged media establishments on need  to understand their target audiences deeply.

The Principal Consultant highlighted the importance of leveraging data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) smartly, and the continued relevance of human insight and observation, calling on media practitioners to adapt to changing consumer habits, be experimental, and embrace kitchen table pragmatism by starting small and testing ideas before scaling up.

Penpushing reports that Director of the Centre for Innovation, Research and Technology at Fountain University, Osogbo Dr Rasheed Adebiyi, in his submission challenged media outlets to move beyond demographic data and delve into psychographic and behavioral data to understand audience preferences and consumption patterns.

The cerebral lecturer at the summit emphasized and equally advocated for incorporating gamification, interactive content, and community building strategies to foster deeper engagement.

Penpushing further reports that the Managing Director of Scientia Partners Innovation Hub, Dr Helen Emore, in her presentation stressed the need for media organizations to curate their narratives effectively, and urged participants to build communities, engage authentically, and recognize the shift in economic power towards consumers.

The Trainer/Comms Consultant at Dan Mason Media, Dan Mason offered practical tips on how best Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can be used to generate story ideas, optimize headlines, and enhance storytelling, stressed the importance of understanding audience priorities and adapting content accordingly.

Penpushing reports that the Media Scholar and Adjunct Faculty at Pan Atlantic University, Richard  Ikiebe, examined historical trends in Nigerian media, encouraging participants to learn from the past while recognizing the unique challenges of the present and called for a renewed focus on investigative journalism, issue-based reporting, and a collective commitment to combating misinformation.

The panelists include Joseph Adeyeye of Punch Nigeria Limited, Frank Aigbogun of BusinessDay, Betty Dibiah Akeredolu-Ale of Branama Children’s Television, Mojeed Musikilu of Premium Times, and Toun O. Sonaiya of Women Radio 91.7 FM.

Penpushing also reports that the panelists shared their experiences and insights on audience engagement, revenue generation, and digital transformation, emphasizing the need for collaboration, innovation, and a deep understanding of the Nigerian media landscape.

The other resolutions at the summit include increased investment in audience research and data analytics, development of innovative content formats and distribution strategies, enhanced collaboration and partnerships within the media industry and renewed focus on ethical journalism and combating misinformation.

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