School urges institutional control of AI
By Emmanuel Oloniruha
The Abuja School of Social and Political Thought has called for robust institutional control and management of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to harness its benefits while minimising potential risks.
Dr Sam Amadi, Director of the school, made the call during his lecture at the 2025 maiden edition of the Nduka Obaigbena National Secondary School Essay Competition in Abuja.
The competition honoured Nduka Obaigbena, founding Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of ThisDay Media Group and Arise News.
Amadi emphasised the need to govern both human and artificial intelligence effectively.
“The discussion underscores the importance of balancing intelligence with its applications to prevent disasters caused by misuse,” he said.
Highlighting the role of government and society, Amadi stressed the necessity of preserving creativity and control in AI development.
He also advocated for deeper discussions around freedom of information and press freedom in the digital age.
According to Amadi, AI tools are transforming journalism by enabling real-time fact-checking and helping journalists verify claims more efficiently.
“AI tools allow for the immediate cross-checking of information, helping journalists to verify claims and contradictions more efficiently,” he explained.
However, he warned about the risk of losing nuanced writing and originality, pointing out a shift from traditional fact-based journalism to narrative-driven reporting where truth becomes more contested.
Frank Tietie, Executive Director of the Centre for Advanced Social and Economic Research (CASER), which fully funded the competition, explained that the initiative aimed to inspire young Nigerians to pursue careers in journalism and broadcasting, preserving human intelligence in the fields amid rising AI influence.
Tietie, speaking at the event, noted that the competition, initiated at Government College Ughelli, Obaigbena’s alma mater, also promoted constructive use of social media and deeper understanding of journalism’s impact.
He added that July 14, Obaigbena’s birthday, was a fitting occasion to celebrate his contributions to broadcasting.
The winners of the competition were Ray Mukoro (first place, 70 per cent), Princewill Kaiser (second place, 68 per cent), and Egarievwe Unique Efetobor (third place, 67 per cent).
Prof. Biodun Adeniyi, Professor of Communications at Baze University and the competition judge, lauded the winners as “the brightest hopes of Nigeria’s educational system and future of national thought leadership.”
He noted that 12 outstanding essays were shortlisted and carefully assessed on originality, insight, clarity, relevance, grammar, and reader engagement.
Adeniyi also commended Frank Tietie’s commitment to youth development and intellectual engagement through sponsoring the competition.
“By championing this initiative, Tietie has provided a meaningful platform for young Nigerians to celebrate the legacy of a national icon while discovering the power of their voices.
“This competition stands not only as a tribute to the life and legacy of Prince Nduka Obaigbena but also as a clarion call to Nigerian youths to write, reason, and dream,” he said. (NAN)
Edited by Esenvosa Izah/Abiemwense Moru
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