Ex-governor Osoba asks journalists to defend ethics, truth in AI era

Olusegun Osoba, former governor of Ogun state, has implored journalists to uphold the highest ethical standards.

Osoba spoke on Wednesday at the official launch of Pinnacle Daily, a new digital newspaper under Pinnacle Digital Resources Limited. The launch event was themed ‘Media as Business’.

The veteran journalist said the profession must not lose its integrity amid the rapid influence of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) on news production and dissemination.

“Journalism, a profession that is as old as time itself, will continue to retain its shine as long as we, as professionals, stick to professionalism based on the strictest ethical standards, which are the harbour of true journalism practice,” he said.

Osoba said the emergence of artificial intelligence and citizen journalism has democratised information sharing and raised concerns about misinformation and declining standards.

“There are serious issues around practice, standards, and ethics with the advent of citizen journalism. Journalists must show the light and lead the way in the preservation of journalism practice and standards,” he said.

The former governor commended journalists who have left traditional newsrooms to establish credible online platforms, as well as those who continue to sustain legacy media despite Nigeria’s harsh economic environment.

“Our work as journalists and truth bearers is even more imperative today in preserving our fledgling democracy and promoting the well-being of our people,” he said.

Osoba also praised the promoters of Pinnacle Daily for their courage in launching a value-driven media organisation at a time of industry uncertainty.

He expressed confidence that the business-focused publication would “deliver valuable information and data that will enable people to make smart decisions about their lives and businesses”.

In his remarks, Abimbola Adeseyoju, chairman of Pinnacle Digital Resources Limited, described the launch as the realisation of a three-year vision to redefine how news is produced and consumed.

Adeseyoju said Pinnacle Daily was designed to cater to the needs of a new generation of readers with short attention spans and a preference for fast, useful information.

“Our idea is that Pinnacle Daily will be the trusted choice of channel for this generation when it comes to decision-making in their personal, economic, and political lives,” he said.

“We want to provide rational and advantageous information to help our consumers win in life.”

Delivering the keynote address titled ‘Economics of Media Business: Understanding Revenue Models and Profitability,’ Isiaq Ajibola, a media executive, reflected on the evolution of Nigerian journalism from print to digital platforms.

He said survival in today’s media space requires innovation, diversified revenue models, and strong digital strategies.

“The journey from hard copy newspaper to online platform is more than a technological success. It is a revolution in how we create, distribute, and monetise information,” he said.

“Yet, one truth remains. Quality, content, credibility, and professionalism will always command true value.”