A teaching assistant at the Department of Advertising, Public Relations, and Design at the University of Colorado Boulder, Mr Gbenga Arinkebi, has asserted that journalists must embrace Artificial Intelligence to remain relevant in the profession. He addressed the growing adoption of AI in newsrooms during a workshop held at Caleb University, Imota, Lagos.
“AI cannot replace you; you will only be replaced by those who use AI,” Arinkebi stated.
He stressed that ethical judgment, investigative skills, and editorial decision making remain human responsibilities that technology cannot replicate. While AI tools assist with transcription, captioning, and content generation, he cautioned against total reliance on technology.
The workshop titled “Information and Media Literacy: Shaping the Future of TV News Reporting” was organised by the Department of Mass Communication for 300 and 400 level students. It brought together media professionals and scholars to examine emerging trends in broadcast journalism, particularly the growing influence of AI in news production.
Presidential Villa Correspondent and Head of Business Desk at African Independent Television, Mr Yemi Adebayo, highlighted the importance of specialised reporting. He noted that the future of television news relies on journalists who understand issues beyond surface level headlines.
“Journalism can only grow when we have reporters who look beyond the headlines,” Adebayo remarked.
He urged reporters to analyse issues thoroughly and provide audiences with detailed and relevant information.
Dr. Atinuke Akintayo, Head of the Department of Broadcasting and host of the event, highlighted the importance of information and media literacy in the digital age. She noted that with the rapid growth of social media and digital technologies, journalists must develop skills to distinguish credible information from misinformation.
She emphasised that, beyond traditional reporting skills, television journalists must embrace digital tools responsibly to remain effective. According to her, mastering digital skills would enable future broadcasters to adapt to industry changes while maintaining accuracy and professionalism.
The speakers also discussed challenges facing traditional television newsrooms, including declining revenue, repetitive formats, and the struggle to attract younger audiences. They urged students to embrace innovation while maintaining credibility and transparency. The event featured practical sessions on broadcast photography and camera techniques.
