Chevron Nigeria Limited, in partnership with the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, trained more than 70 journalists on how to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) in their work.
The training took place on Tuesday in Abuja.
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The aim was to help journalists improve the quality of their reporting, work faster, and reduce the spread of false information.
Chevron’s General Manager of Policy, Olusoga Oduselu (represented by Victor Anyaegbudike), said the media plays a powerful role in shaping public opinion and setting the agenda.
He added that Chevron values human development and is happy to support journalists in building their skills.
Oduselu said the training was part of a series that started in 2023 and has taken place in Lagos, Delta, and now Abuja.
He mentioned that Chevron had also worked with Pan Atlantic University to train over 120 journalists through a program called AWARES (Advanced Writing and Reporting Skills).
He encouraged journalists to continue telling the story of Nigeria’s growth while sticking to professional ethics.
Oduselu also said Chevron creates jobs for Nigerians and gives contract opportunities worth over $1 billion each year.
The NUJ FCT Chairperson, Grace Ike, thanked Chevron for supporting the training.
She said AI is already being used by journalists in other countries and Nigerian journalists must also take advantage of the technology.
She explained that AI helps journalists analyze information, detect fake news, and understand what readers want.
She also noted that AI tools can help with tasks like transcribing interviews, allowing journalists more time to write and analyze.
She urged journalists to embrace new technology while staying honest and trustworthy in their work. She said: “With the right tools and attitude, we can tell better stories, faster and more accurately, while keeping the trust of our audience.”
One of the speakers, Busola Ajibola from the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development, said journalists who don’t learn how to use AI might risk losing their jobs.
She advised them to learn and grow with technology.
Another speaker, Dr. Emman Usman Shehu of the International Institute of Journalism, spoke about the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
He said journalists should use the law to hold public officials accountable. He also explained that the FOIA now applies to all levels of government, including states, following a court ruling in April 2025.
But he noted that many journalists and citizens are still unaware of the law, and some journalists face threats when they ask for information.
Dr. Lemmy Ughegbe, another speaker, talked about the mental health of journalists in the age of social media.
He said social media has both good and bad sides.
It allows faster news sharing and better audience interaction but also exposes journalists to online abuse, harassment, and stress.
He warned that online attacks can lead to serious mental health issues and may cause good journalists to leave the profession.
He said protecting mental health is not selfish, it is a professional responsibility.
