Blessing Osemobor writes on the need for better utilization of AI for journalism discussed at a media workshop organised by Polaris Bank in Lagos last year.
Addressing his audience at a media workshop organised by Polaris Bank on ‘Integrating AI tools in Contemporary Media practices for Innovation and Excellence’, Senior Lecturer at the School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, Lekki, Lagos, Dr Chike Mgbeadichie, took a deep breath when he heard a journalist raised a concern that AI would replace them; that it would strip their profession of its essence.
“AI cannot replace humans because it lacks emotion and critical thinking,” he said, his voice steady. “You, as a journalist, must possess both. So, get your facts straight, think critically, and use AI responsibly—don’t let it control you.”
That statement struck a chord. In an era where AI-generated content is rapidly becoming mainstream, the real question isn’t whether AI will take over journalism. It’s whether journalists will master the art of using AI effectively.
The AI Dilemma: Friend or Foe?
There’s no denying that AI is reshaping media practices. Automated news summaries, AI-assisted research, and even content generation are now part of newsroom workflows. Some journalists embrace these tools, using them to enhance productivity. Others fear AI could render them obsolete.
Executive Director, Media Career Development Network, Lekan Otufodunrin, puts it bluntly: “AI will replace you if you’re complacent and fail to keep up with in-demand skills.”
It’s a fair warning. The media landscape is shifting, and journalists who refuse to adapt may find themselves struggling to stay relevant. But there’s a crucial difference between being replaced by AI and being outperformed by those who leverage it effectively.
Deputy Director, Digital Media at Voice of Nigeria (VON), Dr. Qasim Akinreti, echoed the same sentiment as Otufodunrin, “If you don’t understand that the world now runs on machine tools like AI, you’ll be left behind, living in regret.”
The Critical Thinking Edge
Here’s the catch: AI is a tool, not a decision-maker. It can generate text, summarise reports, and even suggest headlines, but it doesn’t think. It doesn’t question, analyse, or understand context the way a journalist does. This is where critical thinking becomes non-negotiable.
Imagine an AI tool that generates a breaking news article. It pulls data from multiple sources, strings together a well-structured piece, and presents it as fact. But what if one of those sources is unreliable? What if the AI fails to detect satire or misinformation?
A journalist with strong critical thinking skills will not blindly accept AI-generated content. They will verify facts, cross-check sources, and add human nuance that AI simply cannot replicate.
READ ALSO: Polaris Bank empowers media practitioners on AI, new practices
Staying Ahead: Adaptation Over Fear
The key to thriving in AI-powered journalism is adaptation. Instead of seeing AI as a threat, journalists must see it as a collaborator. That means:
Mastering AI tools: Learn how to use AI for research, transcription, data analysis, and content optimisation.
Developing analytical skills: Go beyond reporting facts—provide context, interpretation, and depth that AI cannot.
Reverse learning: Be open to learning from younger, tech-savvy colleagues while maintaining professional integrity.
Maintaining ethical standards: AI can assist, but journalists must ensure accuracy, fairness, and credibility.
AI as an Ally in Innovation and Excellence
When used wisely, AI doesn’t replace journalistic skills—it enhances them. It allows reporters to focus on investigative storytelling, in-depth analysis, and meaningful narratives rather than routine tasks. AI can help uncover patterns in data, streamline newsroom processes, and even enhance audience engagement.
But at the core of great journalism is the human touch; curiosity, empathy, and, most importantly, critical thinking. AI might generate words, but only journalists can give them meaning.
So, as Dr. Mgbeadichie advised, don’t fear AI. Understand it. Master it. And most importantly, think critically. That’s the only way to stay ahead in this new era of media innovation.