Minister, NOUN Advocate Ethical Use Of AI

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), have called for the ethical and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to safeguard truth, foster trust, and promote human dignity in the digital era.

They spoke in Abuja on Friday at the symposium organised by the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI) in commemoration of the 2025 Global Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Week, hosted by NOUN.

The event was organised under the theme; “Promoting AI Adoption and Gratification through Media and Information Literacy.”

The Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Professor Olufemi Peters, reiterated the institution’s readiness to collaborate with the Federal Government, UNESCO, and development partners to build a world where technology empowers and Artificial Intelligence serves humanity.

“This annual global event, convened under the auspices of UNESCO, reminds us of the growing importance of Media and Information Literacy in a world increasingly shaped by digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and the rapid exchange of information,” Prof. Peters stated.

He noted that NOUN’s selection for the second consecutive year as host of the global symposium was a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s leadership in advancing inclusive and equitable access to media and information literacy education in Africa and beyond.

“We are living in a defining moment an era where Artificial Intelligence has become deeply woven into the fabric of human life. It shapes how we learn, teach, govern, trade, create, and even how we connect with one another.

“But while AI holds immense promise, it also raises serious ethical, social, and philosophical questions. How do we ensure that these technologies serve humanity and not destroy it?”

On his part, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who was represented by the Director of Public Communication, Barrister Henshaw Ogubike, reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting digital integrity and responsible communication in the age of artificial intelligence.

“The Ministry of Information and National Orientation remains steadfast in promoting media and information environments that encourage truth, transparency, creativity, and national unity.

“Through collaboration with UNESCO, IMILI, and other partners, we continue to advance initiatives that enhance media literacy, counter misinformation, and encourage Nigerians to leverage digital tools for social and economic advancement,” the Minister said.

Also speaking, Ms. Yachat Nuhu, who represented the Head of UNESCO Abuja Office, stressed that media and information literacy was critical for promoting freedom of expression and access to information, both of which are key to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“Media and Information Literacy is key to addressing the challenges of the 21st century, including the proliferation of misinformation, the decline of trust in media, and the transformative impact of digital innovation, notably artificial intelligence.”

Nuhu observed that while AI enhances access to information, it also brings challenges such as algorithmic bias, misinformation, and deepfake technology. “As AI continues to evolve, MIL must adapt to equip people with the knowledge and skills to navigate this rapidly changing landscape,” she urged.