From Bashir Rabe Mani, Sokoto
The United States Embassy in Nigeria has organized a nationwide, virtual Artificial Intelligence (AI) training program for Nigerian media professionals aimed at building capacity for reporting on emerging technologies and enhancing newsroom digital skills.
The interactive workshop took place simultaneously across multiple centers, including the American Space in Sokoto, with journalists joining virtually from Lagos, Edo, Bauchi, Katsina, and Sokoto states. Print, broadcast, and online journalists participated in the session.
Coordinated in Sokoto by Aliyu Yahaya Ibrahim, Director of the American Space Sokoto, the program brought media practitioners together to explore how AI tools are reshaping news gathering, audience engagement, and investigative storytelling.
Our correspondent reports that the training covered best practices for incorporating AI tools responsibly into daily news production while maintaining editorial integrity.
Also, facilitators provided practical methods for identifying synthetic media, deepfakes, and automated misinformation campaigns.
Equally, participants explored using AI to process large datasets, streamline research, and uncover complex storylines.
The session was facilitated by U.S.-based media trainer and veteran journalist Chris Coates, who emphasized that AI tools are fundamentally altering global media workflows.
Coates urged Nigerian reporters to adapt to modern newsroom technologies without sacrificing accuracy or ethics.
“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.”
Journalists attending the Sokoto workshop expressed appreciation to the U.S. Embassy and the American Space network, noting that the practical exposure would help improve overall newsroom efficiency and elevate reporting on technology, governance, and national development.
Reaffirming its partnership with Nigerian media organizations, the U.S. Embassy highlighted its ongoing commitment to supporting accurate reporting, media literacy, and digital innovation across the country.
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