Sterling Group, CAMIC train Journalists on AI-Driven sustainability reporting

The Sterling Sustainability Working Group, in partnership with the Climate Africa Media Initiative and Centre (CAMIC), has called on journalists to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) in promoting public awareness on environmental protection, climate action, and sustainable development.

The call was made at a two-day capacity-building workshop held in Abuja, designed to equip media practitioners with practical skills for effective sustainability, health, and environmental reporting.

Speakers at the training included Mrs. Bunmi Ajiboye, Chairperson of Sterling Bank’s Sustainability Working Group; Aliu Akoshile, Publisher of NatureNews Media; Akogun Ishiak Ajibola, former Managing Director of Daily Trust; and Victoria Bamas, Editor at the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR).

In her welcome address, Mrs. Ajiboye emphasised the media’s pivotal role in shaping public understanding and driving sustainable change, describing the workshop as “more than a routine training exercise.” She noted that storytelling significantly influences how issues are perceived, believed, and acted upon.

“At Sterling, our journey in sustainability has been bold and intentional—from financing renewable energy projects to supporting circular-economy startups, climate-smart agriculture, and youth empowerment. But beyond the work itself, the story is what shapes the nation,” she said.

Victoria Bamas highlighted the growing relevance of AI in investigative journalism, explaining that technology can support content creation across text, audio, and visuals, automate routine reporting tasks, aid transcription and translation, and assist with data analysis and story mapping.

“AI is indispensable in modern journalism, but it must be used responsibly for reporters to remain competitive and credible,” Bamas noted.

On media ethics, Aliu Akoshile urged journalists to maintain critical thinking, accountability, and professional standards, stressing that AI cannot replace human judgment.

Akogun Ishiak Ajibola encouraged media organisations to adopt digital tools and innovative storytelling formats to engage wider audiences while balancing financial and editorial sustainability.

The interactive workshop featured Q&A sessions, experience sharing, and networking, reinforcing the role of media not only as reporters but as strategic partners in Nigeria’s sustainable development journey.

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