Ethical Challenges of Broadcast Journalism in the Era of Artificial Intelligence: Perspectives of Practitioners in Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the perceptions of broadcast media professionals in Anambra State, Nigeria, regarding the ethical challenges arising from the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in journalism. Adopting a qualitative research design, the study employed in-depth interviews to collect data from ten purposively selected practitioners drawn from television and radio broadcasting organisations. The findings indicate that while broadcast journalists demonstrate substantial awareness of AI’s expanding role in broadcast journalism, they also express concerns about several ethical risks, including misinformation, algorithmic bias, creative disruption of professional roles, editorial over-reliance on automated systems, lack of transparency, and the persistence of a digital divide. Participants contend that these challenges constrain the responsible and effective utilisation of AI technologies in broadcast practice. The study therefore recommends the development and enforcement of context-specific ethical guidelines, targeted AI literacy training for journalists, strengthened editorial oversight of AI-assisted content, routine auditing of AI systems to mitigate bias, and the promotion of inclusive access to AI tools to support equitable adoption across regions.