The Kano Online Media Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on 18th November, 2025, held a one-day capacity building workshop at the Conference Hall, Ministry of Transformation, Kano State. The programme centred on the theme “Artificial Intelligence and Journalism” with the keynote topic “Journalism in the AI Era: Innovation, Online Media, and National Development.” The workshop was organised to enlighten and equip online journalists with the knowledge and skills required to integrate Artificial Intelligence into their work for improved efficiency, credibility, and national development.
-The communique has acknowledged the growing influence of AI in contemporary journalism and resolved to embrace the technology responsibly to enhance accuracy, productivity, and ethical reporting. The communiqué reviewed major achievements, ongoing progress, and challenges facing the Chapel and called on government agencies, private organisations, and individuals to support efforts aimed at strengthening online journalism in the state.
-The communique also appealed to the Kano State Government to join the global trend by organising regular retreats and continuous training for online journalists, particularly in AI applications that simplify and enhance professional practice. It also urged the government to reinforce its relationship with the Chapel by introducing a monthly retainership, similar to what is already extended to other media bodies.
The communique extended the appreciation to the State Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Waiya, for his cooperation and support, and to the Director-General, Media and Communications to the Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, for announcing a donation of ₦2 million to the Chapel. The communiqué emphasised that online journalism has become a far-reaching platform that transcends geographical and time barriers and urged members to maintain discipline, professionalism, and ethical standards in their day-to-day reporting.
-The communique further drew the attention of the government to lingering challenges, including the lack of an official office and mobility support, which are essential for effective operations, especially when covering assignments outside the state. Participants also noted that AI is reshaping journalism globally and stressed the need for members to adapt to emerging technologies while avoiding unethical practices.
-The communiqué expressed gratitude to the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for maintaining a harmonious relationship with journalists and expressed optimism over the government’s intention to organise a befitting retreat within and outside the state to equip online journalists with modern media skills in line with global best practices. Special appreciation was given to Professor Rukayya Yusuf Aliyu of the Faculty of Mass Communication, Bayero University Kano, for presenting an insightful paper on the opportunities and challenges associated with AI adoption in journalism.
-The Chapel thanked all dignitaries and organisations that attended or supported the event, including the Nigeria Police Force (Kano Command), FRSC Kano Sector Command, NSCDC State Command, NUJ Kano Council, NGE, Kano chapter, Society of Broadcasters, NIPR Kano Chapter, RATTAWU Kano Chapter, political party representatives, Dala Foods, Ghadco Nigeria Limited, and other well-wishers. Finally, the communiqué acknowledged the participants’ appreciation to the Kano Online Media Chapel for organising the training and reaffirmed their commitment to applying the knowledge gained to promote responsible online journalism and contribute positively to societal development.
E-Signed:
Abbas Yusha'u – Chairman, Communiqué Drafting Committee
Maikudi Muhammad Marafa – Secretary, Communiqué Drafting Committee
Abdulkadir Abubakar Dangambo – Chapel Chairman
Sunusi A. Kofar Naisa – Assistant Secretary
