US Embassy trains Nigerian journalists on AI 

The United States Embassy in Nigeria on Monday organized a simultaneous virtual Artificial Intelligence training for Nigerian journalists, aimed at strengthening their capacity to use AI and emerging technologies in news gathering, fact-checking, content creation and audience engagement.

Our Correspondent in Sokoto who also attended the training.said that the participants were drawn from Sokoto, Lagos, Edo, Bauchi and Katsina States.

The training, held at the American Space, Sokoto, was coordinated by Aliyu Yahaya Ibrahim, Director, American Space, Sokoto.

Similar sessions were linked virtually at other American Spaces across Nigeria.

The training brought together journalists from print, broadcast and online media to equip them with practical knowledge on how AI is transforming news.

Participants were trained on the ethical use of AI tools, detecting misinformation, data-driven reporting, and leveraging AI for investigative journalism and storytelling.

The Virtual Resource Person for the session was Mr. Chris Coates, a renowned journalist and Media Trainer based in the USA, who facilitated the training virtually to all centers.

 Croates noted that AI is reshaping journalism globally and Nigerian reporters must be prepared to understand both the opportunities and risks it presents.

“The goal is to ensure Nigerian journalists are not left behind as AI changes how news is produced and consumed.

“This training will help them use AI responsibly to improve accuracy, speed and reach,” the facilitator said.

Journalists at the training expressed appreciation to the US Embassy and the American Space, Sokoto, saying the knowledge gained would help them better cover technology, governance and development issues while also improving newsroom efficiency.

The US Embassy reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with Nigerian media professionals to promote accurate information and innovation in journalism.