Shine Your Eyes": Lanre Arogundade Urges Journalists to Navigate AI Era with Courage and Caution
As the media grapples with AI and digital transformation, Lanre Arogundade’s message was clear: while AI offers powerful tools for storytelling and reporting, it also presents unprecedented threats to journalistic integrity. The celebration of academic excellence in Professors Akanni and Sanni underscored the vital role of education and critical thinking in navigating this brave new media world.
In a powerful call to action for the media industry, Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of the International Press Centre (IPC), has urged journalists across Nigeria to face the rapidly evolving media landscape—especially the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI)—with both caution and courage.
Speaking on Monday during a public lecture commemorating the 60th birthday of Professor Tunde Akanni and Dr. Omolade Sanni, Arogundade spotlighted the double-edged nature of AI in modern journalism.
Celebrating a Milestone in Academia
The event, held at Lagos State University (LASU), was as much a celebration as it was a warning. In March 2025, LASU’s Governing Council approved Akanni’s elevation to the position of Full Professor of Journalism and Development Communication, while Dr. Sanni continues to serve as a respected Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies.
“AI Can Empower or Endanger Journalism” — Arogundade Warns
In his keynote, Arogundade—who was recently removed from the DSS watchlist after nearly four decades—described AI as a disruptive force with both positive and negative implications.
“AI comes with the good, the bad and the ugly. Know this and use it wisely,” he said.
“Never forget the tenets of journalism. You have to be brave to report in our new world today.”
He proposed the creation of a national AI policy tailored to protecting press freedom and safeguarding the work of journalists in Nigeria.
Weaponisation of AI and the Rise of Misinformation
The IPC boss also warned about the weaponisation of AI against the media. He noted the ongoing erosion of trust in journalism due to information disorder, encompassing misinformation, disinformation, and deepfake technology.
“We’re already seeing a world where citizens wonder whether to trust what they see in the news. That’s how deep AI's influence is becoming.”
Academics Echo Concerns, Praise Honourees
Professor Jide Jimoh, Dean of the Faculty, praised both Akanni and Sanni for their dedication to academia and student mentorship:
“Akanni came in as an assistant lecturer… and now he’s a professor. Dr. Sanni is known for her quiet compassion and diligence. Her students love her.”
Former dean Professor Rotimi Olatunji also commented on Arogundade’s lecture, cautioning journalists about AI hallucinations—when AI generates false information that seems credible.
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