AWARENESS AND ADOPTION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN NEWS PRODUCTION AMONG JOURNALISTS IN KWARA STATE

Abstract

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in journalism is transforming news production processes globally. However, in developing regions like Kwara State, Nigeria, the adoption of Artificial Intelligence based tools among journalists, remains limited due to various factors such as lack of awareness, limited resources, and ethical concerns. This study aimed to investigate the awareness and adoption of AI in news production among selected journalists in Kwara State. The research employed a cross-sectional quantitative design, utilizing a structured questionnaire to collect data from a sample of 139 journalists affiliated with the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Kwara State. Stratified random sampling was used to ensure representation across different media types. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, including frequency distributions, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Findings revealed varying levels of awareness and adoption of Artificial Intelligence based tools among journalists in Kwara State. While respondents demonstrated high awareness of AI’s potential in production and data analysis, knowledge of specialized applications like content creation and personalization was lower. Perceived benefits included increased efficiency and improved real-time updates, while challenges encompassed high implementation costs and lack of technical skills. The study found moderate adoption of AI tools for fact-checking and assisted writing, but lower usage rates for automated content generation and news personalization. In conclusion, AI integration in journalism in Kwara State is in a transitional phase, with some technologies being more readily embraced than others. To facilitate broader adoption, it is recommended that media organizations and educational institutions prioritize AI skills development through specialized training programs tailored to the local context. Additionally, efforts should be made to address cost barriers and develop comprehensive ethical guidelines for AI use in journalism.