By Sule Aliyu Bauchi
Journalists in Nigeria have been advised to adhere strictly to the core ethics and code guiding the profession in the performance of their duties.
Comrade Mukhtar Gidado Jarman Alkaleri, the Special Adviser to the Bauchi State Governor on Media and Publicity, gave the advice while declaring open a two day workshop/ Training on Emerging Trends in Journalism with theme” The Impacts on Modern Journalism, Practitioners” held at the Yankari Games Reserve Bauchi.
Comrade Gidado, also urged journalists to equally uphold the principle of accuracy, credibility and ethical reporting amidst digital revolution.
Gidado said one of the most significant shifts in journalism is the rise of digital media, adding that news is no longer confined to newspapers, radio, and television; social media, blogs and independent platforms now play a critical role in shaping public discourse.
” The speed at which information spreads has increased, and with it, the challenge of misinformation and fake news. As journalists, it is our responsibility to uphold accuracy, credibility, and ethical reporting amidst this digital revolution”
“Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the way news is gathered, analyzed, and disseminated. Al-powered tools can generate reports, analyze trends, and even predict breaking AT news patterns. However, while AI can enhance efficiency, it cannot replace the core values of journalism-human judgment, investigative skills, and ethical considerations. Journalists must therefore adapt by integrating all, while maintaining the essence of responsible reporting”
“Despite technological advancements, the need for investigative journalism remains as critical as ever. In an era where misinformation can go viral within minutes, journalists must be more vigilant in verifying facts, cross-checking sources, and holding power to account. The integrity of journalism depends on how well practitioners uphold the truth in an age of misinformation”
“Another emerging trend is the shift toward journalists becoming personal brands. With social media platforms providing direct access to audiences, journalists are no longer just reporters: they are influencers and thought leaders. This brings both responsibility and challenges.
” Journalism is at a crossroads. The digital age presents immense opportunities for growth, innovation, and impact, but it also requires journalists to be more vigilant, adaptable, and ethical. As we discuss these emerging trends over, let us remember that while technology may evolve, the principles of journalism truth, fairness, and responsibility-must remain constant.
“The future of journalism lies in its ability to adapt while maintaining its fundamental principles. As we discuss and learn from one another during this workshop, I encourage you all to embrace innovation while ensuring that integrity remains at the heart of your profession.
“I commend the NUJ Correspondents Chapel for organizing this workshop and encourage all participants to engage actively in discussions that will shape the future of journalism in Bauchi State and beyond.
As a Government we appreciate the working relationship with the members of the correspondents Chapel and we commend you for your support in the reportage of the laudable policies and programs of the dynamic government of governor Bala Abdukadir Muhammad. It’s our hope that the future shall provide many more areas of good working collaboration” he said
While commending the NUJ council and correspondent chapel for organizing the workshop, he urged the participants at the training to engage actively in discussions that will help shape the future of journalism in the state and beyond.
A resource Person at the training, Dr Andee Iheme who spoke on AI in Journalism, said that Artificial Intelligence is a paradigm shift in technology that journalists should not ignore while doing their jobs, pointing out that AI help journalists to fact-check information.
“AI is a paradigm shift you cannot ignore in Journalism, all you have to do is to know how to use it to improve your work.You need to develop knowledge by yourself because what AI is giving you as information has been inputed by people.
AI is good, but you have to develop yourself by looking for information that will bring development to the community” he said
He urged them to be committed to some of the fundamental principles of journalism such as honesty, fairness, Independence and respect for the rights of others.
He advised them to be conscious of the existing cultural and religious differences with its target and objective of enhancing socio-economic and political growth of the society as well as enhancing peace, unity and progress
Speaking earlier, the State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Umar Sa’idu commended the leadership of the correspondent chapel in the state for organizing the training for journalists, saying that training and retraining of journalists is key to the growth of journalism profession.
He called on journalists in the state to always adhere to the provisions of the NUJ constitution, particularly in the manner of reportage as well as consider national interest and adopt solution journalism towards promoting good governance, transparency and accountability in any administration.
In his welcome address, the chairman of the correspondents chapel Malam Ahmad Muhammad, called on members of the chapel to be conversant with the changing trend in the profession.
He commended the office of the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity for supporting journalists in the state by providing a conducive environment for journalists in the state to operate without any fear intimidation and harassment.
In a paper titled Mass Tourism, Relationship with the Media, the Managing Director of Bauchi state Tourism Development Corporation Dr Muhammad Nasir Yusuf, disclosed plans by the corporation to partner a South African firm to develop the sector in the state.
Dr Nasir said plans are underway to construct a rail line from Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport to Sumu Wild life Park to ease access to the park.
