Journalists Urged To Uphold Principle Of Accuracy, Credibility, Ethical Reporting

Journalists in Bauchi State have been urged to always uphold the principle of accuracy, credibility and ethical reporting amidst digital revolution.

The Special Adviser to the Bauchi State Governor on Media and Publicity, Comrade Mukhtar Gidado stated this 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 Mukhtar 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 Mohammed. It 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.
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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

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.

Also Speaking, the Bauchi State Chairman of the Correspondent Chapel, Ahmed Mohammed 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.