As Nigeria joins the global community to mark the 2025 World Press Freedom Day, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called for the development of ethical and legal frameworks to ensure Artificial Intelligence (AI) aligns with fundamental human rights principles.
Speaking in Abuja to commemorate the day, Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu (SAN), stressed the need for regulations that would prevent abuses of AI technologies while protecting press freedom and other fundamental rights.
Dr. Ojukwu disclosed that the Commission would soon issue an advisory on the use and deployment of AI in Nigeria. He acknowledged the potential of AI to improve journalism through enhanced content creation, investigative reporting, research, and fact-checking. However, he warned of the risks posed by unregulated AI use, such as misinformation, cyberbullying, emotional abuse, and incitement.
Reflecting on the theme of this year’s commemoration—“Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media”—the NHRC boss described it as timely, noting the growing influence of digital technologies and AI across all sectors.
While AI has helped eliminate communication barriers and expanded access to information, Dr. Ojukwu emphasized that its misuse can also lead to violations of the right to freedom of expression and media freedom. He urged both citizens and journalists to use AI tools responsibly, in ways that advance democratic values and public interest, while refraining from inciting or harmful speech.
He also called on government authorities to support journalists in the discharge of their constitutional duties, particularly in holding public institutions accountable. “The press is a vital partner in the democratic process and must be allowed to operate without intimidation or undue interference,” he said.
Dr. Ojukwu commended journalists for their resilience and commitment despite facing threats, harassment, and even destruction of their work tools by overzealous security operatives.
He underscored that World Press Freedom Day is not a time to cast blame but to reflect on the state of press freedom globally, defend media independence, and honour journalists who have paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.
First proclaimed in 1993, World Press Freedom Day is observed every May 3 to remind governments of their commitment to press freedom and to uphold journalistic ethics and integrity.
The Commission’s statement was issued on Saturday by Hajia Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages at the NHRC.
