Google, through its News Initiative (GNI), hosted an Artificial Intelligence (AI) workshop on Friday, aimed at equipping journalists with advanced technological skills to enhance storytelling and newsroom production.
The workshop, held in Lagos, forms part of Google’s broader effort to support the media industry in adapting to the evolving landscape of AI-driven journalism.
Speaking at the event, Mr Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, Communications and Public Affairs Manager for Google West Africa, reiterated the company’s mission of organising and making information globally accessible and useful. He highlighted that Google extends this commitment to the media sector by fostering quality journalism, strengthening business models for publishers, and encouraging collaboration within the news ecosystem.
“The training in Nigeria at this time underscores our focus on broadening access to AI resources, ensuring that journalists worldwide can harness these tools to improve their work,” he said.
According to Kola-Ogunlade, Google provides journalists and content creators with AI-driven tools such as Gemini, Pinpoint, and NotebookLM to assist with research, fact-checking, and content development.
“We are dedicated to engaging users responsibly with AI, empowering publishers to manage their content effectively, and working collectively to combat misinformation,” he added.
Journalists who attended the training described the experience as both timely and impactful.
Adebola Adegoke from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) remarked that the workshop provided valuable insights that would enhance her storytelling and content production.
Another participant, who wished to remain anonymous, emphasised the importance of keeping up with AI advancements in journalism, warning that those who fail to do so risk being left behind.
The training, conducted in partnership with GomyCode, introduced participants to tools such as Fact Check Explorer, Pinpoint, and NotebookLM, which aid in searching, verifying information, analysing large document collections, and summarising key findings efficiently.
This initiative aligns with Google’s broader efforts to empower journalists with AI-powered tools, ensuring they remain at the forefront of modern news reporting.
