Experts have called on the media professionals to adopt and integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their daily operations to stay competitive and enhance industry outcomes.
They stressed that AI could enhance the media landscape by boosting audience engagement, streamlining audio content production and improving operational efficiency through smart editing tools and advanced data analytics.
This call was made during the AI Radio Summit Nigeria and the unveiling of “NIMI,” an innovative AI-powered radio host and the Women Radio 91.7 FM intelligent virtual assistant.
Tagged Smart Radio: Leveraging AI for Next-Gen Broadcasting, the summit, which held in Lagos, showcased how AI was redefining the future of broadcasting by automating routine tasks, enabling faster content delivery and creating more personalised experiences.
According to the Chief Executive Officer, Women Radio 91.7, Toun Okewale Sonaiya, in her remarks, AI affirms has a fundamental role not just the future but the present.
She expressed pride in her team’s efforts in pushing the boundaries of what radio could achieve with the creation of Nigeria’s first radio virtual assistant “Nimi” and highlighted Nimi’s importance as a radio confidante and companion, offering a safe space for support and knowledge.
Head, Innovation at CJID, Monsur Hussain, demonstrated how the Dubawa audio platform would monitor radio shows by recording, transcribing and extracting potentially false or misleading claims, which were then presented to the Dubawa Fact-checkers for in-depth investigations; bringing accountability and safeguarding journalistic integrity in Nigeria’s broadcast sector.
Lagos State Governor’s special adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, commended Women Radio for setting a precedence that served as a model for what Nigeria could achieve when technology meets creativity.
Founder, Rise Network, Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, urged Nigerians to create local AI solutions, emphasising ethical innovation and regulation to govern AI’s rapid adoption.
She stressed AI’s role in democratising media and building trust. Programmes Director, Nigeria Media Innovation Programme, Adedeji Adekunle, highlighted the necessity of leveraging this technology, while ensuring the protection of intellectual property.
Business Programme Manager at Microsoft Nigeria/Ghana, Stellamaris Okebu, spoke on AI’s efficiency in streamlining tasks, which she described as essential for the future.
During a panel discussion on AI Enhancing Journalism and Broadcasting: Ethics and Professionalism, Kayode Okikiolu of Channels TV questioned the stance of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) on AI citing public skepticism.
Okikiolu stressed the need for NBC to be involved in discussions about AI and raised concerns about balancing investments in AI with prioritising staff welfare.
Managing Director, AI Academy for Beginners, Sam Onigbanjo, highlighted the rapid evolution of AI, noting the benefits of transitioning from free to paid versions of AI systems in creating advanced articles and advertisements. He underscored the necessity of combining creativity with technology to maximise AI’s potential.
