Ethical Journalism, Key to Public Trust – NCC Noted at TPS Workshop | ClipTV Online

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has extolled The Press Society (TPS), a coalition of online media practitioners. The commission hailed the association for its dedication to promoting ethical journalism among Nigerian journalists. This was disclosed on Thursday during the Press Society’s Maiden edition of its physical sensitization Workshop, held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ikeja, Lagos. The maiden edition of the TPS Workshop focused on the creativity that can be derived from the ethical and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

TPS has held other workshops virtually using available technology, including Zoom and Google Teams. The physical workshop, themed “Balancing Creativity in the Media in the Era of Artificial Intelligence (AI),” welcomed media practitioners and veterans who share knowledge and experiences with others.

Speaking at the workshop, the Nigerian Communications Commission Executive Vice Chairman (EVC), Dr. Aminu Maida, who was represented by Mr. Babatunde Apeji, Principal Manager, Projects at Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), disclosed that the workshop is timely and very relevant. Dr. Maida commended TPS for bringing together journalists, media practitioners, and stakeholders to deliberate on the modalities for reshaping Nigerian journalism to reflect its true purpose. “I am particularly excited that this Media Sensitization Workshop is timely and thought-provoking with its theme, ‘Balancing Creativity and Ethics in the Media in the Era of Artificial Intelligence,” Maida noted.

The EVC noted that AI can be very helpful to journalists, as it can process large volumes of information quickly, detect patterns, translate content, and improve efficiency. He then cautioned that, despite all the benefits, it is worth noting the responsibility and accountability in the use of AI-generated content. He stated that when “used responsibly, these tools can strengthen journalism by allowing reporters and editors to devote more time to investigation, analysis, and public-interest reporting.” Maida noted that the TPS Workshop is not only an eye-opener but also a call to action.

Dr. Maida further underscored the importance of ethical use of AI, admitting that it is currently influencing industries across the globe and is used to produce and distribute content for consumption. Maida added that it is also taking up newsroom space, noting that Nigerian journalists engage with AI to transcribe, conduct research, analyze data, and even reach their audiences. He, however, cautioned on the importance of accuracy, credibility, and public trust while delivering AI-produced content. Dr. Maida’s thought is in harmony with the Code of Ethics for Nigerian Journalists, which reads: “Journalism entails a high degree of public trust. To earn and maintain this trust, it is morally imperative for every journalist and every news medium to observe the highest professional and ethical standards.”

He added, “According to industry data published by the Commission, Nigeria had approximately 179.64 million active telecommunications subscriptions as of May 2026, alongside more than 157 million mobile internet subscriptions and over 121 million broadband subscriptions. These figures illustrate how connectivity has become an essential utility for millions of Nigerians.”

He then warned that technological capability is not an automatic reflection of accuracy. Highlighting the importance of being distinctively different from producing or distributing misleading information, stating that it is against the core journalism principles.

Additionally, Maida emphasized that it is both important and obligatory for journalists attending this TPS workshop to verify information before dissemination, and that, to earn credibility, there should be a focus on diligence, evidence, and accountability. This is also in harmony with Article 2 of the Code of Ethics for Nigerian Journalists, which emphasizes accuracy and fairness. “The public has a right to know,” the article says. It continues, “Factual, accurate, balanced, and fair reporting is the ultimate objective of good journalism and the basis of earning public trust and confidence.”

Maida then underscored the commission’s role in encouraging the ethical use of AI. “The NCC’s role in this evolving environment is to create conditions that encourage innovation while protecting consumers and supporting public confidence in communications services.” He added that “As technology evolves, regulation must also evolve. Our objective is not to impede innovation but to ensure that innovation develops within a framework that promotes security, fairness, and accountability,” Maida concluded.   

The Press Society (TPS) Workshop has not only called on responsible journalism but also highlighted the ethical use of artificial intelligence. This event underscored the role of adequate research against “copy and paste” in Nigerian journalism. The attendees have committed to being creative and ethical, and to gaining public trust, while using artificial intelligence in their journalistic and editorial capacities.