Gov Otti Courts Online Media, Restates Readiness to Partner OMPAN as AI Takes Centre Stage at Abia AGM

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to partnering with the Online Media Practitioners Association of Nigeria (OMPAN) to sustain what he described as the irreversible transformation currently unfolding in the state.

Governor Otti made this known while congratulating OMPAN on the successful hosting of its 3rd Annual General Meeting (AGM), held at the Umuahia North Local Government Area Multipurpose Hall, Umuahia.

The Governor was represented at the event by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, who conveyed the administration's goodwill and appreciation to online media practitioners in the state.

Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Prince Kanu described OMPAN as a credible, responsible and forward-thinking organisation, stressing that the state's development agenda requires strong collaboration with technology-driven media institutions.

"Abia State is on an irreversible pathway of development and transformation. This administration is deliberately building institutions, infrastructure and systems that will serve not just the present generation but generations unborn,ÔÇØ he said.

"To sustain this journey, we need partners like OMPAN-credible, responsible, forward-thinking and technologically equipped.ÔÇØ

Governor Otti further acknowledged that online media practitioners in Abia are not merely storytellers, but critical partners in governance, playing a vital role in shaping public discourse, promoting accountability and strengthening democratic institutions.

Governor Otti commended OMPAN for choosing "The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Media and Journalism in the 21st CenturyÔÇØ as the theme of the AGM, describing it as timely and relevant in a rapidly evolving digital environment.

He noted that artificial intelligence has become a dominant force in global media practice, redefining how stories are gathered, verified, produced and distributed.

While encouraging journalists to embrace technology, the Governor warned against allowing AI to replace professional judgment.

"Let technology amplify your strengths, not diminish your value. Let artificial intelligence enhance your work, not replace your sense of judgment,ÔÇØ he cautioned.

Governor Otti also revealed that his administration is working to create an enabling environment for media practice, including plans to improve and expand internet availability across Abia State, noting that connectivity is critical for online journalism.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Patra Arinze Etie, Group Managing Director of Bems Group, offered a comprehensive and engaging analysis of artificial intelligence and its growing influence on journalism.

Dr. Etie explained that AI has become a powerful tool for content creation, data analysis, fact-checking, newsroom efficiency and audience engagement, urging media practitioners to understand and strategically deploy the technology to remain competitive.

However, he issued a strong warning against unregulated and unethical use of AI in journalism.

"Artificial intelligence is a tool, not a conscience,ÔÇØ he stated, stressing that AI cannot replace objectivity, transparency, balance, clarity and ethical judgment, which remain the foundation of credible journalism.

According to him, excessive dependence on AI without ethical safeguards could lead to misinformation, erode public trust and weaken the credibility of the media profession.

He encouraged journalists to invest in continuous learning, digital literacy and ethical discipline, emphasizing that the future of journalism belongs to professionals who can balance technology with integrity.

The Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, represented by ASP Precious Obiesie, commended OMPAN members for their role in promoting peace and security through responsible reporting. He highlighted the strong synergy between the police and online media in the state.

Similarly, the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Abia State, Ibrahim Abdullahi, represented by Deputy PPRO Abubakar James, cautioned media practitioners against using artificial intelligence to spread fake news, assuring OMPAN of the DSS's willingness to deepen collaboration in intelligence sharing and public safety.

Earlier, the Chairman of Abia Online Media Practitioners Association, Chief Promise Uzoma Okoro, said the AGM provided an opportunity to review the association's activities and chart a stronger path forward.

He disclosed that a major highlight of the AGM was the unveiling of the Grand Patron and Patrons of the association, describing it as a milestone in OMPAN's growth.

According to him, OMPAN has been repositioned, reclaimed its relevance and regained respect within Abia's media ecosystem under the current leadership.

"OMPAN is no longer a sidelined bloc. We are now recognized, consulted and involved in important conversations,ÔÇØ he said.

Chief Okoro noted that artificial intelligence has become one of the most transformative forces in modern communication, influencing content creation, verification, distribution and audience engagement.

The AGM ended with renewed calls for sustained collaboration between government, security agencies and online media practitioners, as Abia State positions itself at the intersection of technology, governance and responsible journalism.

Participants expressed optimism that with strategic partnerships, ethical standards and responsible use of artificial intelligence, Abia's online media ecosystem would continue to grow stronger and more influential.

[caption id="attachment_197679" align="alignnone" width="2048"] Chairman of Abia Online Media Practitioners Association, Chief Promise Uzoma Okoro[/caption]