FIC Report (Benue State) – The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benue State Council, Comrade Bemdoo Ugber, has urged the Federal Government to provide improved security for journalists, emphasizing that press freedom cannot thrive in an environment where media professionals face threats and intimidation.
Comrade Ugber made this call during a public lecture held to mark the 2025 World Press Freedom Day on Monday, May 5, 2025, at the NUJ State Secretariat in Makurdi.
He highlighted that journalists are constitutionally mandated to hold public office holders accountable, yet they lack the necessary protection to carry out this responsibility effectively. He further noted that despite the legal provisions, the safety and welfare of journalists remain neglected.
Ugber also revealed that the NUJ, both at the national and state levels, alongside relevant stakeholders, is working to sponsor a Media Enhancement Bill at the National Assembly. The bill aims to improve the safety, security, and welfare of journalists to enable them to perform their duties optimally.
Delivering the keynote lecture on the theme “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media”, Dr. Cletus Akwaya, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, acknowledged the benefits of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing efficiency and decision-making. However, he cautioned against potential dangers such as misinformation, fake news, and job displacement.
Dr. Akwaya noted that while AI presents opportunities for the digital and entertainment industries, it also brings challenges to press freedom. He called on media organizations like the NUJ, the Nigerian Guild of Editors, and the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria to establish AI research teams to better understand and guide the responsible use of the technology in journalism.
In his contribution, Dr. Ben Ebe, former Editor and General Manager of Benue Printing and Publishing Corporation (North Central Times Magazine), emphasized that AI tools can assist in fact-checking, data journalism, and content creation, especially during elections and investigative reporting. He urged journalists to adopt AI responsibly to improve accuracy and productivity while also being mindful of its potential for censorship, bias, and surveillance.
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Benue State Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Cephers Hough, who was the special guest, advised journalists to remain cautious, noting that AI can be unpredictable and must be handled with discernment.
In their closing remarks, the Chairman of the Public Forum, Comrade Babs Usigbe, and the Secretary, Comrade Terhemen Ater of Radio Benue, expressed gratitude to stakeholders and union members for their continued support of the NUJ and their contributions to the success of the event.
Signed
Bridget Udoo Tarker
For: Head of Centre
Federal Information Centre, Makurdi
