Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has encouraged journalists to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a powerful tool for enhancing their work while remaining true to their role as watchdogs of democracy. He made the call during the opening ceremony of the State House Press Corps’ two-day capacity-building retreat and workshop in Enugu, themed: “Artificial Intelligence (AI) Utilisation for Effective Journalism.”

 

Represented by the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Sam Chijioke, Governor Mbah welcomed participants to Enugu — a city with deep historical roots in Nigerian journalism. He described the media as the “conscience of the nation” and a key pillar of democracy.

 

Speaking on the workshop’s theme, Mbah emphasized that AI is already reshaping society. “AI is not a distant frontier — it is here and now, changing our lives in ways we may not immediately notice,” he said. He urged journalists to move beyond fears and misinformation, and instead explore how AI can help them work smarter, not harder.

 

Mbah showcased Enugu’s technological strides, citing the state’s 24/7 Command and Control Centre for security surveillance and rapid emergency response. He also highlighted the Smart Schools Project in all 260 wards, designed to equip young children with digital and problem-solving skills from age three — a move he described as “mind-blowing” in its impact on literacy and learning outcomes.

 

On infrastructure, the governor noted improvements in road networks and public transportation, replacing disorganized bus parks with more efficient and dignified systems. “We are building a modern Enugu where the public commutes on well-paved roads free from chaos,” he said.

 

While urging journalists to adopt AI for efficiency, he warned against allowing it to dull their creativity or journalistic judgment. “Use AI, but don’t let it take over your originality,” he cautioned, calling for renewed editorial courage and commitment to truth.

 

Chairman of the State House Press Corps, Anule Emmanuel, expressed gratitude for the governor’s support and praised the transformational work being done in Enugu. He emphasized the need for continuous training for journalists operating in Nigeria’s most sensitive political environments, adding that the retreat offers a firsthand experience of the state’s development progress.

 

Vice Chairman Hassan Faruk applauded the chairman’s leadership and vision, describing the retreat as a timely initiative to equip journalists with modern tools for effective storytelling.

 

Veteran journalist Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye also thanked Governor Mbah for the warm welcome, noting that many participants were visiting Enugu overnight for the first time. She expressed excitement about the retreat’s AI focus, calling it a vital learning opportunity for journalists navigating the digital shift in media.

 

“We’re told that if we don’t adapt, we’ll become obsolete. This retreat is our chance to upgrade our skills in data analysis, fact-checking, and content delivery,” she said.

 

Lanre Lasisi, in his remarks, addressed the pressures modern journalists face, emphasizing the importance of self-care and strong professional networks. “There are no closing hours anymore. Stories break at any time, and we jump in. But we must also take time to relax and connect with colleagues who help us stay afloat,” he said.

 

Lasisi encouraged participants to take full advantage of the retreat, not just for training but also for bonding and personal growth. “Know your people — those you rely on in tough moments. That’s also part of professional development,” he concluded.

 

The retreat aims to strengthen journalists’ skills in using AI tools to enhance reporting, boost accuracy, and navigate the demands of an evolving media landscape.