Lekan Yusuf, Ibadan
Senator Abdulfatai Buhari has emphasized the importance of journalists’ adapting to the rapid evolving media landscape, particularly with the rise of Artificial Intelligence.
The event which was organized by South West Zone B of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, led by Princess Ronke Afebioye Samo and Alhaji Abdul Razaq Alege had Buhari as the guest speaker at the 32nd World Press Freedom Day Lecture.
In a notable recognition of his contributions, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari was presented with the prestigious “Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize”. This international award serves as testament to his commitment to promoting press freedom and journalism excellence.
Senator Buhari, representing Oyo North Senatorial District, charged journalists to carve a niche for themselves, allowing AI to serve as a complementary tool rather than a replacement.
“Have you ever seen a situation where AI sends a player away from the goal post with no goalkeeper and diverts the ball? Na lie, they will score you 70-0,” he humorously illustrated, highlighting AI’s limitations.
The event featured notable dignitaries, including Prof. Rasak Olatunde Rom Kalilu, the Vice Chancellor of LAUTECH Ogbomoso, who delivered the keynote speech.
Other prominent attendees included the Chairman of the occasion Alhaji Bolaji Kareem, a former Oyo State Commissioner and Coordinator of the International Institute of Journalism, Ibadan Study Centre and the Host; Alhaji Ademola Babalola the Chairman NUJ Oyo State Council among others.
On politics, Senator Buhari urged journalists to facilitate standard debates among candidates, especially as the 2027 elections are approaching by scrutinizing candidates for them to unveil their blueprints.
He noted that journalists can influence the public to make informed decisions. “As we approach the 2027 elections, it’s crucial for journalists to set a standard debate amongst candidates and scrutinize them to let the world know what their blueprints are. By doing so, the public will know who to vote for.”
The third term senate member’s words of wisdom resonated with the audience, emphasizing the importance of journalists staying relevant in the age of AI as the media landscape continues to evolve, stating that journalists who adopt the innovation will thrive.
