Media - NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA

Tosin Kolade
Nov, Sun, 2024

Media experts to harness AI for broadcasting transformation

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By Taiye Agbaje

Media experts have converged as part of efforts to revolutionalise the broadcasting industry by harnessing the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Women Radio 91.7FM, Toun Sonaiya, made this known at an AI Radio Summit organised in Lagos and monitored by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) virtually in Abuja.

The summit, titled: “Smart Radio: Leveraging AI for Next-Gen Broadcasting,” also had a sub-theme: “An intersection of AI and Future of Radio Broadcasting in Nigeria.”

The event, which was organised by Women Radio in partnership with Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), was also to unveil an AI generated radio host called, “NIMI.”

Sonaiya, while speaking, said the programme was aimed at unlocking the future of radio broadcasting as the experts explore how AI could enhance audience engagement, streamline audio content production and boost operational efficiency through smart editing and data analysis.

“For me, as I reflect on the remarkable progress of Women Radio 91.7FM, I am reminded of my own journey growing up without mobile phones and the internet.

“And I am trilled by the possibilities AI brings. At Women Radio 91.7FM, we have intentionally embraced this new era with our team, not only welcoming new innovation but leading it.

“We are leveraging AI in presentation, voice overs, news editing, content creation and automation.

“We are re-emerging radio to connect with our audience.

“As a pioneer in AI Radio broadcast, our mission is to inspire others into AI skills.

“AI Radio is the future and the future today is now,” she said.

Sonaiya urged media practitioners to embrace AI for sustainable innovation and growth, and to unlock the future of radio broadcasting.

Adedeji Adekunle, the Programmes Director, Nigeria Media Innovation Programme, who spoke virtually, said AI affects the experience of the staff in an organisation and also provides opportunity for business as media entrepreneurs to be enriched.

“If you are a radio or broadcast professionals here or a business owner, you have to consider what AI can do for you,” he said.

Adekunle urged media practitioners to explore various uses of AI and how they affect the experience of their audience.

He, however, called for an internal, organisational AI policy to guide how the practitioners work due to privacy concerns.

“Let’s put together policy that enhances our work and protects the integrity of what we do,” he added.

Stellamaris Okebu, the Business Programme Manager, Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana, enumerated the benefits of AI.

She said AI would help to analyse one’s data and to know who the listeners are, their age group and how to serve them best.

“It can also help you to analyse trending topics on radio

“Generally from a technology perspective, AI basically helps us to enhance our jobs.

“It will help us significantly for the next generation to get job done quickly, easier and to be more efficient,” she said.

Gboyega Akosile, Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Media and Publicity, said AI radio summit represented a significant milestone in the industry.

“It brings together passionate individuals and organisations dedicated to pioneering advancements in the world of broadcasting

“Women Radio 91.7FM has demonstrated remarkable commitment to harnessing the power of the artificial intelligence for social impact .

“The introduction of ‘NIMI’ AI, Nigeria’s first AI radio host and interactive virtual assistant, is a clear testament to the limitless potential of AI in enhancing how we engage with our audiences and deliver compelling content.

“‘NIMI’ AI not only represents technological innovation but also serves as role model for what can be achieved when creativity meets technology,” he said.

Akosile said he believed that the summit would delve into important discussion surrounding AI ethics and the opportunities that it presents toward ensuring a more inclusive and more innovative radio industry that prioritises the needs and voices of all community members.

He said Lagos State had invested heavily in a smart city project which is aimed at transforming the entire technology ecosystem from what it is today to what everyone desires.

The governor’s side, who commended Women Radio, said the state was ready to partner with the radio station for a better future and development of the ecosystem.

“Therefore, let us leverage AI boundless potential to transform the landscape of Nigeria radio broadcasting for the better,” he said.

NAN reports that the event was attended by many media professionals, including the CEO of CJID, Mr Dapo Olorunyomi.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Ismail Abdulaziz
Nov, Sat, 2024

Foreign

Chinese media experts urge mutual cooperation in Sino-African exchange

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By Halima Sheji

A Chinese teacher, Prof. Zhang Genfu, has underscored the need for mutual cooperation through China-Africa media exchanges to advance the Sino-African modernisation.

Zhang, a Deputy-Director of the Zhejiang Normal University (ZJNU) Affairs Committee, made the call during the inaugural ceremony of the Seminar for Omni-media journalists from English-speaking African countries in Jinhua city, China.

He said that the 10 partnership actions announced by President Xi Jinping at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing elevated Africa-China relations to new heights.

Zhang said, “China has always been a country of action and always done what it says. We believe that in the foreseeable future, China-Africa relations will deepen and cooperation in economy, trade, culture and other fields will be closer.

“I sincerely hope that through this Seminar, we can strengthen exchanges with you, enhance the understanding of Chinese and African media friends in the language and culture.

“Also, strengthen news and cultural exchanges, jointly promote the high-quality development of media undertakings of the two sides, inject new connotation into China-Africa friendship and write a new chapter.

“Let us move towards each other with mutual support and empowerment, jointly advancing the modernisation of China and Africa, and together achieving a bright future.”

He said that the visit of the participants councides with the autumn season when the eyes of the world focused on China-Africa.

“2024 FOCAC Summit held in Beijing in September and the Heads of State, Heads of Government, Heads of Delegation of China and 53 African countries, and the Chairpersons of the African Union (AU) Commissions met in Beijing to draw new blueprint for development of Africa-China relations.

“Now we welcome media friends from 11 countries, including Ghana, South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Mauritius, Zambia, Gambia, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Benin and Nigeria. This is the epitome of China-Africa comprehensive cooperation and friendship,” he added.

He described ZJNU as an institution with disciplines such as Mathematics, Chemistry, Engineering, Materials Science, Environment/Ecology, Computer Science, Zoology, Animal and Plant Sciences, and General Social Sciences in the top 1 per cent of Employees State Insurance (ESI) globally.

He added that the university had cultivated not less than 400,000 talents of all types for the society since its founding 68 years ago, and established cooperation and exchange relations with 280 institutions of higher learning in over 60 countries and regions.

Chen Yan, Director of the Foreign Affairs Office of Jinhua Municipal City, urged the journalists to explore the media exchange platform to garner relevant knowledge towards deepening China-African relations.

Chen said, “This year, numerous foreign journalists visited Jinhua. They explored the local markets, industries, countryside, cultural sites and conducted comprehensive reporting on the city.

“Notably, Brazil’s flagship Media Group and the ‘Review’ press crew filmed the ‘Watch China Together’ programme in Jinhua. These related reports were then featured as a series of special topics in Brazil, commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Brazil.

“In May this year, 28 journalists from 27 African countries came to Jinhua and published 72 articles, introducing the colorful Jinhua to the world.

“In July, we held a special ‘overseas universities’ media workshop for Young media professionals from the “Belt and Road” countries, attended by 69 media professionals from 18 countries, all of which are vivid manifestations of the international communication of the Belt and Road Golden Hub.”

Meanwhile, Mr Lassana Tunkara, Deputy General-Manager of QTV/QRadio in The Gambia, spoke on behalf of the journalists saying the seminar titled: “Journalism organisation and news media for Belt and Road Initiative countries”, saying it would enable them advance international best practices in media operations.

Tunkara said, “This seminar presents an extraordinary opportunity to broaden our understanding of global media landscape, particularly within the context of Chinese media experience and our primary goal should be to explore how media can act as catalyst for international collaboration and development.

“We are enthusiastic about diving into the dynamics of vibrant Chinese media landscape with social and new media transforming the way we share and consume information across the world.

“Understanding this trend is essential for shaping media in Africa, especially as we navigate the fast-evolving digital environment. We look forward to learning about business management and how sustainable models can empower media organisations to thrive in competitive markets.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports Jinhua is a prefecture-level city in central Zhejiang Province in eastern China that has jurisdiction over nine counties cities and districts with an area of 11,000 square kilometers and a permanent population of 7.16 million people. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Ismail Abdulaziz
Oct, Thu, 2024

General News

Sanwo-Olu, others praise philanthropist over NIJ media centre

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By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Wednesday inaugurated a 350-seat media resource centre donated to the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) by business mogul and philanthropist, Dr Kesington Adebutu.

Sanwo-Olu, represented by the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, inaugurated the centre at the NIJ, Ogba, Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Kesington Adebutu Media Resource Centre is to provide journalism students with access to state-of-the-art equipment, resources and technology to enhancing their learning experience.

Sanwo-Olu said at the event that the state government would continually identify with, and support, causes that would improve journalism practice.

He thanked Adebutu, popularly known as Baba Ijebu, for the donation.

“I thank Baba for putting this here, for being futuristic about the profession of journalism and sparing a thought for this very important aspect of nation-building,” he said.

Chief Olusegun Osoba, Chairman of NIJ Governing Council and former Governor of Ogun, described Adebutu as a great Nigerian and philanthropist.

He praised Adebutu’s commitment to civic responsibilities.

“After the building was completed, Baba Ijebu sent another N23 million and said we should use it to furnish the place.

“That is why I am saying we are celebrating a great Nigerian, a philanthropist of the first order.”

Osoba also praised the project contractor, describing him as dedicated individual.

“This place was built in five months, we thank Are Gbogbogbo. He made this project as if it was his own personal project because Baba Ijebu didn’t have time to be coming.

“The contractor did not use the money for birthday celebration; he used it to buy everything needed – cement, roof, blocks, tiles, iron rods and others.”

Mr Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, in his remarks, said that the centre would be of tremendous value to journalists and other users.

He described Adebutu as a partner in education development, saying that his gesture demonstrated support for President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to provide access to education for all.

In his remarks, Adebutu expressed hope that the resource centre would boost journalism practice in Nigeria.

He said that the donation was in line with the objectives of the Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation, which he founded.

“I feel a sense of pride to be associated with this project as the donor.

“In essence, it is to give back as much as possible to the society, from what God, in his unquantifiable goodness, has favoured me with,” he said.

In a goodwill message, on behalf of the Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria, veteran journalist, Mr Ray Ekpu, described the resource centre as a transformer.

According to him, it will help the NIJ to do better.

“Journalism is not speculation, rumours. It is a profession with code of ethics. Truth-telling is its article of faith.

“Media professionals do not need handcuffs, they need training, more training. They need support, more support.

“That is what will add more oxygen to our democracy and country,” he said.

He called on other philanthropists to identify with NIJ to make it a legendary trainer of journalists. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Tosin Kolade
Oct, Fri, 2024

Economy/Business

Media critical stakeholder in data production- Statistician-General

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By Okeoghene Akubuike

The Statistician-General of the Federation, Adeyemi Adeniran, says the media plays a critical role in the production of data in Nigeria.

Adeniran said this at a Dialogue with Editors on the: “Rebasing of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and the Nigeria Living Standards Survey (NLSS)” in Abuja on Thursday.

He said the media’s understanding of the data production process would ensure adequate and effective reportage of the statistics published by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

Adeniran said the dialogue was organised to ensure that the routine yet important statistical exercises were fully understood and utilised to enhance public knowledge, inform policy, and improve overall economic governance in Nigeria.

“As critical partners in the data production process, we want the media to become a strong voice and advocate of the work you see going on in the Bureau and within the Statistical System in the country.

“We want your reportage to be accurate, objective, and sound, to help build the confidence and trust of the public in what we do.

“In so doing, the output of the process will reflect an accurate picture of living conditions and the state of the economy in Nigeria.

“It will also enhance the understanding of emerging sectors and economic activities, and satisfy the needs of all users of the data.

“For NBS, we see these engagements as a necessary aspect of the data production process.”

Adeniran said one of the United Nations fundamental principles of official statistics was accountability and transparency, and the dialogue was one way the NBS ensured that the processes were open and transparent.

He said this would help promote and enhance the credibility of the system and build confidence in what the NBS was doing.

“It is also another way of ensuring inclusivity, promoting collaboration, and engendering partnership throughout the process of these exercises, and the NBS’s wider data production.”

The statistician-general said the NBS on its path, would continue to remain objective, open, transparent, professional and not emotional in carrying out its mandate.

“The work we do in the NBS is very sensitive, it goes beyond producing data to show the feelings of the people because that is the only way the government can plan and come up with effective policies.”

He said it would be wrong for the bureau to give the government false data because it would be of no help to both the government and the citizens.

“Therefore, the notion that we produce data to favour the government in power should not arise because it would be counterproductive.

“Our results do not favour any government because they are routine surveys carried out before any particular government comes into power.

“We publish only whatever the data says. So it is important to explain and dialogue so you can understand the process to report accurately and objectively.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the dialogue was attended by chief executives and editors of various media organisations. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng )

Edited by Ese E. Eniola Williams

isaac aregbesola
Oct, Fri, 2024

Politics

Makinde urges media not to relent in upholding watchdog role

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Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has advised media organisations and practitioners not to allow themselves to be cowed or silenced while he lying to foster democracy and development in Nigeria.

Makinde, represented by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Mr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, gave the advice during a retreat in Ibadan on Thursday for journalists covering the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the retreat has “The Role of the Media in Fostering Transparency and Development in a Multi-party Democracy” as its theme.

Makinde said: “The media, as the society’s mirror and watchdog, must always speak truth to the power, hold government accountable, and keep the political class and other members of the society on their toes.

“The media must ensure that its platforms are not controlled only by those in power or those who have the wherewithal.

“Just like the public office is held in trust, the public space which the media controls is also held in trust for the people by media practitioners.

“Just as the public office-holders should not abuse the trust, media practitioners should not also abuse or misuse the trust.

“Development is a consequence of the pursuit of public interest. When all sectors of the society pursue public interest, there will be development.”

The governor added that for a multi-party democracy to thrive, the media owed the society the responsibility of keeping watch on the ruling party.

He said this was necessary to prevent the ruling party from using its power to stifle democracy by crippling opposition.

“Remember the French judge, Baron De Montesquieu, who warned that power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely.

“It is, therefore, a key function of the media and a task that must be done that you prevent the absolutism of the ruling party or the majority party,” Makinde said.

He stated that the Oyo State Government had put in place measures to promote transparency, by regularly monitoring and addressing citizens’ concerns.

“My administration established the Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYSACA), which has the mandate to investigate cases of corruption and mismanagement of public funds.

“We also established the Project Monitoring Agency, which is saddled with the responsibility of ensuring that the state gets value for its money.

“All of these are targeted at ensuring that as much as it is practicable, we run a transparent administration,” the governor said.

***Members of the PDP Press Corps with the Chief Press Secretary to the Oyo State Governor, Mr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, during a retreat in Ibadan on Thursday***

The event’s guest speaker, Prof. Adebusuyi Adeniran, a Senior Researcher at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife, urged journalists to uphold the country’s democracy by being objective in their reports.

Adeniran advised the media to continue to uphold their constitutional role of holding government and leaders accountable for the development of the country.

In his remarks, Chairman of PDP Press Corps, Mr Samuel Ogidan, said the retreat would enhance the journalists’ skills.

“This is in the face of rising demands and complexities of reporting, as well as the evolving world of politics.”

Ogidan said the goal of the retreat was for the participants to be better equipped to navigate the challenges of journalism.

“This is to enable them continue upholding the values of integrity, accuracy and objectivity in their reports, especially in the digital age.

“As journalists covering politics, we serve as watchdogs of democracy. Our responsibility is immense, and so are the pressures and obstacles we face.

“The fast pace of political events, the complexity of governance and the shifting nature of public opinion demand that we stay sharp, informed and adaptable.

“This retreat provides the much-needed pause from our daily grind, giving us the space to reflect on our craft, sharpen our skills and engage in meaningful discussions about the future of journalism in Nigeria,” he said.

Ogidan, who said investigative journalism remained a cornerstone of political reporting, tasked participants to dig deeper and uncover the truth often buried beneath layers of bureaucracy and deception.

He commended Makinde for hosting the retreat, given his understanding of the role of free and responsible journalism in strengthening democracy, fostering transparency and empowering citizens.

The Press Corps Chairman described Makinde as a visionary leader with a passion for transformational governance, who has consistently raised the bar with distinctive innovations and inclusive approach.

“From infrastructural improvements to educational reforms, his leadership capacity has brought remarkable progress and growth to the people of the state,” he said.

Ogidan added that Makinde had also made significant contributions to PDP’s growth on the national stage.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
==========

(Edited by Olawale Alabi)

Ismail Abdulaziz
Oct, Mon, 2024

General News

Why media must harness AI’s opportunities- NAN MD

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By Mufutau Ojo

The Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Malam Ali Muhammad Ali, says the media must harness the opportunities provided by Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Ali said this on Monday in Urumqi, China, in his address at the ongoing World Media Summit.

He also said that the media must put in place safeguards to check the negative effects of the use of AI.

This sixth edition of the World Media Summit has as theme: “Artificial Intelligence and Media Transformation.”

Ali observed that AI had become a matter of absorbing interest across the globe.

” Just like the social media insidiously ate into our operations decades ago, the global media family is once again faced with the behemoth of Artificial Intelligence that is gradually defining our very existence.

” Across the globe, Artificial Intelligence has today permeated our everyday life.

” The spectre of what Artificial Intelligence can do in the light of current developments is better imagined,” Ali said.

According to the NAN MD, AI is already revolutionising the way the media conducts its business.

He cited the gains of AI in media operations to include automated journalism in which AI-powered tools generate news articles, sports reports and financial updates.

Ali also said AI could be used in analysing audience engagement as well as suggesting improvements to headline images and article structure.

He added that AI could be used to streamline video editing and colour correction and sound design.

Warning, however, on the downsides of AI, the NAN chief said putting in place adequate safeguards had become imperative.

” Only some months ago, I was in Copenhagen, Denmark, to attend the World Media Congress, and I was drawn to a particular session on Artificial Intelligence.

” We were exposed to two video clips of former President Donald Trump of the United States speaking at a forum—-one original and the other deep fake.

” Virtually all of us gathered there could not distinguish the original from the fake.

” For me and my colleagues gathered in that room, it was a learning curve as we were taken through the nuances of detecting what was real and what was fake, ” Ali said.

He also drew attention to job losses due to automation and the danger of fake news and disinformation which AI-generated content could help spread.

To tackle this, he said NAN was working with sister global agencies on policies, processes and programmes to distill contents.

This, he said, was with a view to identifying toxic materials unsuitable for publication.

” The outcomes of such gatekeeping initiatives have had far reaching and profound impact on the credibility of our copies and the sustainability of our editorial operations,” Ali said.

He commended the organisers of the summit for choosing the theme, saying the outcome would define the operations of the global media in the years to come.

NAN reports that at the fifth edition of the World Media Summit in Guangzhou, China, in December 2023, Ali had spoken on “Bolstering Confidence: Media’s Role in Promoting Human Development and Security. ”

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz