NEWS
Abia Online Media Publishers Hold 3rd AGM, Spotlight AI’s Growing Influence on Journalism as Otti Reaffirms Commitment to Ethical, Digital-Driven Media
The Abia State Online Media Publishers Association of Nigeria (OMPAN) has successfully held its 3rd Annual General Meeting (AGM), bringing together key stakeholders in governance, security, business, and the media to deliberate on the future of digital journalism in an era of rapid technological advancement. The event took place at the Umuahia North Local Government Council Headquarters and was themed “The Impact of AI on Media Practice in the 21st Century.”
Delivering the goodwill message of the Abia State Government, the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, was represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu. In his address, the Commissioner conveyed the Governor’s deep appreciation for the role of online media practitioners in democratic governance and public enlightenment, stating: “Let me begin by conveying His Excellency’s warm greetings, best wishes, and deep respect for the vital work you do in shaping public discourse, strengthening democratic accountability, and amplifying the voice of our people in this digital age.”
He described the AGM theme as timely and reflective of the sweeping digital transformation across Abia State and the global media space, noting that Artificial Intelligence has fundamentally altered how news is gathered, verified, produced, and consumed worldwide.
“Today’s theme, ‘The Impact of AI on Media Practice in the 21st Century,’ is very apt given the the massive digital transformation sweeping across our dear state,” he said.
Prince Kanu emphasized that Governor Otti’s administration is determined to ensure that Abia’s media practitioners, especially the vibrant online media community, are fully integrated into this evolving digital future.
“Across the world, Artificial Intelligence is redefining how stories are gathered, verified, produced, distributed, and consumed… Here in Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, is committed to ensuring that our media practitioners, particularly our vibrant online media community are not left behind,” he added.
He further described media practitioners as indispensable partners in governance, stressing that they are not merely storytellers but agents of development and custodians of public enlightenment in the New Abia being built on transparency, accountability, innovation, and digital inclusion.
Addressing the decision of OMPAN to confer on Governor Otti the title of Grand Patron, the Commissioner conveyed the Governor’s appreciation while reaffirming his long-standing principle of declining titles and awards while in office.
“However, in line with his long-standing personal principle… His Excellency wishes to restate that he does not accept titles, awards, or conferments of any kind while in office. This position is not borne out of disregard, but out of humility and a firm belief that public service on its own is an honour,” he stated.
Prince Kanu urged media practitioners to embrace innovation responsibly, warning against sacrificing ethics and professionalism on the altar of technology.
“Let technology amplify your strengths not diminish your values. Let AI enhance your storytelling not replace your judgment,” he said.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of OMPAN, Chief Promise Uzoma Okoro, reflected on the association’s journey and remarkable transformation over the past two years.
“At our 3rd AGM, we celebrate a transformed OMPAN, one that has regained respect, unity, and relevance in Abia’s media space. In just one year and ten months, we achieved five of our six major goals, restored the association’s dignity, strengthened our partnerships, and embraced the digital-first future shaped by Artificial Intelligence. As we unveil our Patrons and prepare for OMPAN at 10, we reaffirm our commitment to professionalism, innovation, and ethical online journalism,” he stated.
The keynote address was delivered by the Group Managing Director of Bems Group, Dr. Pastra Arinze, who challenged Nigerian media practitioners to see Artificial Intelligence not as a threat but as an inevitable tool that must be mastered.
“The Abia Online Media Publishers have consistently advanced professionalism and innovation in digital journalism. As we confront the realities of Artificial Intelligence, a force already reshaping global media, we must understand that AI is not the future; it is the present. It is transforming newsrooms, content creation, distribution, and monetization worldwide.
“Nigeria, with its youthful creativity, expanding digital economy, and vibrant media culture, must choose whether to be passive consumers or active architects of this new era.
“AI will not replace journalists, but journalists who use AI will replace those who do not. Our mandate is clear: embrace AI as a strategic co-pilot, build capacity, protect journalistic integrity, and position ourselves to lead Africa’s digital narrative.
“We have the talent, the stories, and the urgency, AI is the leverage. Let us use it boldly and responsibly,” he stated.
In separate remarks, security agencies underscored the importance of responsible journalism in the digital age. The Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, represented by ASP Precious Obesie, commended OMPAN for its partnership with the Police in promoting peace and security, noting that the media plays a crucial role in crime prevention and public safety.
Similarly, the Abia State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), represented by Deputy PPRO Abubakar James, warned against the misuse of AI in spreading fake news, describing such acts as “Cyber Terrorism.”
He cited a recent incident involving a false report of a highway incident in the state, emphasizing the need for verification and responsible use of technology.
The AGM concluded on a note of renewed commitment by stakeholders to strengthen collaboration, uphold ethical standards, and harness Artificial Intelligence as a tool for progress rather than deception, as Abia State continues on what the government described as an irreversible path to transformation.