Today’s media landscape is confronting unparalleled challenges— from rising restrictions against press freedom to the rapid emergence of artificial intelligence.
Media professionals around the world have been discussing how these circumstances are reshaping the media climate for journalists and content creators in the global south.
University of Oregon Professor of Practice and Carolyn S. Chambers Professor in journalism, Damian Radcliffe, wrote a recent report highlighting the nuances presented by AI. His findings stated that it can offer efficient data processing methods as well as increased access to information. However, it comes with complex challenges, such as amplifying misleading and false content, considering that most AI models are trained on Western-centric databases.
Radcliffe’s report discussed how much of the conversation around AI is dominated by Global North perspectives. Despite this, media professionals in the Global South are looking for ways to surpass media restrictions and adopt AI into their work in ethical and effective ways.
At the 2025 World Press Freedom Day conference in Brussels, Belgium, Nigerian content creator Tobi Ayeni, or “Miss Techy,” spoke about how AI is helping to amplify voices in places where press freedoms may be restricted.
“I prioritize using my voice, not keeping silent, because once people know about something, change can happen,” Ayeni said.
According to Reporters Without Borders, a non-profit organization that aims to secure journalistic rights, Nigeria is one of West Africa’s most dangerous countries for journalists who are regularly attacked and monitored by the Nigerian Government. Social media offers a gateway for Ayeni to amplify her voice without restrictions.
With a rapidly growing market, backed by financial investments, “Nigeria could reap $58 billion from AI by 2030,” said Ola Williams, Managing Director of Microsoft in Nigeria and Ghana. AI presents an emerging economy and medium in the region — its impact is yet to be seen.
Ayeni has over 280,000 Instagram followers and over 28,000 YouTube subscribers, making her an influential figure in Nigeria’s online media landscape.
“Social media gives me an equal playing field,” she said. “It allows me to fight back against sanctions.”
Both Ayeni and Radcliffe urge collaboration between media professionals. They believe AI can be used as a tool to create stories more accurately and efficiently.
Ayeni explained that rather than seeing each other as enemies, journalists and content creators come together and collaborate. Together, they can evolve with the tools at their disposal. “Don’t shy away from AI,” Ayeni said. “Use it as a weapon of truth.”
In the Global South, where institutional support for the media is lacking, AI can be a critical tool — but its success is dependent on the people who wield it.
