Speaking on Thursday to commemorate the occasion, Fall lauded the dedication of media professionals across Nigeria, recognizing their indispensable role in safeguarding democratic principles and fostering an informed citizenry.
"On this World Press Freedom Day, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to the courageous individuals who constitute the media in Nigeria – the journalists, reporters, producers, cameramen and women, and all those working behind the scenes," Fall stated in a press release issued by the UN office in Abuja. "Your contribution forms a vital pillar of a democratic society, empowering citizens to exercise their fundamental rights to freedom of expression and access to information."
This year's global theme, "Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media," draws attention to the intricate relationship developing between cutting-edge technology and the practice of journalism.
Fall acknowledged the dual nature of AI's influence on news dissemination, highlighting both its potential to enhance fact-based reporting and the significant risks it presents.
"AI is undeniably reshaping the landscape of journalism," he cautioned. "While it holds the promise of bolstering fact-based reporting, it also carries the potential to accelerate the spread of disinformation, intensify surveillance, and ultimately silence the pursuit of truth."
He further emphasized the critical need to ensure that "AI does not become a tool that erodes public trust or jeopardizes the safety of journalists, who already face disproportionate risks in both online and offline environments."
Fall referenced the ongoing global initiatives spearheaded by the UN Secretary-General, including the Global Principles for Information Integrity and the Global Digital Compact, which aim to establish frameworks for the responsible development and deployment of AI, emphasizing transparency and accountability across digital platforms.
Within Nigeria, the UN is actively collaborating with civil society organizations, government agencies, and media outlets to bolster media and information literacy, promote the ethical adoption of AI technologies within the media sector, and safeguard the fundamental right to freedom of expression.
"Here in Nigeria, the United Nations is committed to working hand-in-hand with our media partners, civil society, and the government to strengthen public access to reliable information and ensure the protection of fundamental freedoms," Fall affirmed. "Our efforts are focused on promoting media and information literacy, fostering safe digital ecosystems, advocating for the ethical utilization of AI, and supporting the growth of a free, independent, and pluralistic media landscape."
He recognized that while AI offers opportunities to streamline news production processes, it also introduces the danger of widespread misinformation through sophisticated technologies such as deepfakes.
"In this evolving environment, we rely heavily on you, the journalists, to serve as our crucial line of defense against the proliferation of false news, upholding the principles of ethical journalism, and diligently reporting truth and objectivity," he asserted.
Looking ahead, Fall encouraged journalists to adopt a holistic approach to their reporting, not only highlighting the challenges facing Nigeria but also shining a light on positive developments, fostering hope, and actively pursuing solution-driven journalism.
"Your role extends beyond merely spotlighting the problems and challenges that Nigeria confronts; it also encompasses highlighting the progress and abundant opportunities that exist within this nation," he urged. "While conveying instances of disasters and negative news is important, equally crucial is your role as conveyors of hope and progress."
In closing, Fall called upon all stakeholders to provide the necessary support to enable the media to adapt effectively to the rapid pace of technological change.
"It is incumbent upon all of us to ensure that journalism not only survives but thrives," he concluded. "For when the voices of journalists are silenced, the foundations of societies are weakened. Conversely, when journalism flourishes, so too does democracy."
The message concluded with sincere best wishes to all Nigerian journalists and media workers as they continue their indispensable work in service of the public good.
The United Nations General Assembly designated May 3rd as World Press Freedom Day to raise global awareness about the significance of press freedom and to remind governments of their obligation to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression, as enshrined in Article 19 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights.