“Adapt to AI or Face Irrelevance”—Mogaji Soladoye Adewole Warns Journalists at Oyo NUJ Information Chapel Press Week

Media professionals have been urged to embrace emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) or risk becoming irrelevant in a rapidly changing information ecosystem.

The warning was given by Mogaji (Alhaji) Soladoye Akeem Adewole, Public Relations Officer of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, during the 2025 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Information Chapel, Oyo State, held at the House of Parliament, Western Hall, Secretariat, Ibadan, on Thursday.

Speaking on the theme, “The Future of Media Professionals in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” Soladoye described AI as a transformative force reshaping the global media landscape, urging journalists to adapt to new tools or risk extinction.

“Adapt or become obsolete. The evolution of media has always been shaped by technology. AI will not replace journalists, but journalists who understand AI will replace those who don’t,” he said.

Tracing the history of communication from the days of town criers and talking drums to the modern digital age, Soladoye offered a philosophical perspective rooted in Yoruba wisdom. He likened the African understanding of intelligence, Ṣìgìdì empowered by Aṣe to the logic of modern computing, stressing that technology must always serve humanity, not dominate it.

“In Yoruba culture, intelligence is never separated from morality and responsibility. The West seeks speed and efficiency; we must seek harmony and ethics. That must guide our use of AI in journalism,” he explained.

He noted that while AI brings speed, efficiency, and accuracy through applications like automated reporting, data journalism, and content generation, it also poses serious ethical and emotional challenges. Issues such as algorithmic bias, fake news, and deepfakes, he warned, threaten the credibility and moral compass of journalism.

“Technology is only as responsible as the humans who use it,” he cautioned.

“Journalism thrives on empathy, curiosity, and conscience, qualities no machine can replicate.”

Soladoye called for stronger institutional support for AI literacy in Nigerian media, urging the NUJ, polytechnics, and universities to integrate digital ethics and artificial intelligence training into journalism curricula. He also advocated collaborations between journalists and technology innovators to ensure responsible media evolution.

Earlier in his welcome address, Mr. Fasasi Ismail Aliste, Chairman of the NUJ Information Chapel, said the Press Week was not just a celebration but a period of reflection, recognition, and renewal.

“Our gathering today is to honour the enduring relevance of journalism in strengthening democracy, informing citizens, and preserving the values that bind our society,” he stated.

He highlighted the union’s ongoing efforts to improve members’ welfare and professional development, calling for support from stakeholders to provide laptops, a union bus, and a welfare scheme to address members’ healthcare and emergency needs.

“These are not luxuries but essential investments in the growth and dignity of our profession,” Aliste emphasized.

Prince Dotun Oyelade, Commissioner for Information and Orientation, commended journalists for their resilience, especially veterans who continue to uphold truth and public enlightenment in the face of industry challenges.

Highlights of the ceremony included the presentation of awards and certificates to distinguished journalists and personalities for their contributions to public service, communication advancement, and support of the media industry in Oyo State.

Dignitaries at the event included Chief Nureni Akanbi, the Iba Oluyole of Ibadanland; Ambassador Romoke Ramat Ayinde, CEO of Kayrom Lee Ltd and Mother of the Day. Also present were Comrade Demola Babalola, Chairman, NUJ Oyo State Council; Mr. Rotimi Babalola, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information; alongside several media executives, communication practitioners.