FG developing AI policy to safeguard press freedom, says minister

The federal government says it is developing a national policy framework on the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the media space.

A statement on Saturday by Mohammed Idris, the minister of information and national orientation, the Bola Tinubu administration remains committed to protecting press freedom while navigating the challenges of the digital era.

“Today, as Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark World Press Freedom Day 2025, with the theme ‘Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,’we are reminded of the critical role the media plays in shaping informed societies, especially in an era increasingly defined by technology,” he said.

“As we commemorate this important day, let us all—government, media, and civil society—work together to protect freedom of expression while embracing technology that advances, rather than diminishes, the values we hold dear.

“Let me reaffirm that the Tinubu Administration remains deeply committed to upholding press freedom as a cornerstone of our democracy. A free and responsible media is the lifeblood of any democratic society—it gives citizens the power to express themselves freely and hold leaders accountable.”

According to the minister, the proposed national framework will ensure that AI innovation is balanced with ethical safeguards and media rights.

“In this new era, our resolve must be matched with action through policies that promote media innovation while protecting journalists from the misuse of technology,” he said.

“As part of this commitment, the Federal Government is currently developing a national policy framework on the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence in the media space. This framework will ensure that innovation does not come at the cost of ethics, press freedom, or national security.”

Idris warned that AI-fuelled manipulation of information poses a threat to truth and democratic discourse.

“At a time when AI-powered misinformation, deepfakes, and disinformation campaigns are being weaponised to exploit divisions and sow discord, the role of the media as a gatekeeper of truth becomes even more critical,” he added.

“It is not enough to report; the media must take a principled stand to protect the information ecosystem from being polluted by falsehoods and manipulated content.”

The minister urged media organisations to be alert and resist attempts by subversive elements to hijack public discourse.

“Media organisations must be vigilant and must not allow their platforms—whether traditional or digital—to be hijacked by subversive elements, terrorists, anti-state actors, or ultranationalist groups, who seek to undermine our collective peace and the sovereignty of our nation,” he said.

“Granting such elements access to the public sphere without scrutiny not only endangers national security but also erodes public trust in the media.”