First Women Radio Virtual Assistant Makes a Debut in Nigeria

Women Radio 97.1, in partnership with the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) and the Voice of Women Empowerment Foundation, has made history by unveiling “NIM”, Nigeria’s first Women Radio Intelligent Virtual Assistant.’

The unveiling took place during the 2024 Women Radio Summit, signalling a transformative era for radio broadcasting in Nigeria.

The initiative, which integrates artificial intelligence into traditional radio broadcasting, represents a paradigm shift in how radio content is created, distributed, and consumed. In her welcome message, Toun Okewale Sonaiya, CEO of Women Radio 97.1, shares her aims to inspire others into AI’s future, expand access to reliable information, and enhance the listener experience by blending advanced technology with human-centred communication.

The event featured some keynote speeches from:

Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, founder of Rise Network, emphasised the role of science and technology in empowering women and reshaping media landscapes.

Adedeji Adekunle, programmes director of the Nigeria Media Innovation Program, discussed the critical intersection of AI, innovation, and media development in Nigeria. As well as

Sam Onigbanjo, managing director of AI Academy for Beginners, enumerates ways to upskill for maximum integration.

The summit featured an insightful panel discussion on how artificial intelligence can enhance journalism and broadcasting while upholding ethics and professionalism. Esteemed panellists included:

Motunrayo Alaka, executive director of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism, stressed the need for maintaining ethical standards in AI-driven journalism.

Kayode Okikiolu, a Channels TV anchor, discussed the integration of AI in traditional media formats to engage broader audiences and highlighted AI’s potential in diversifying content delivery and improving inclusivity in media.

A highly recommended fact-checking resource was the Dubawa.ai chatbot, an app that was showcased at the summit to verify and debunk misinformation, analyse, transcribe, and document files in archives. It is the radio monitoring feature, an initiative of the Centre for Investigative Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID).

‘NIMI’, the Women Radio Intelligent Virtual Assistant, is the brainchild of technical engineer Tayo Kalejaiye.

This revolutionary AI radio host is designed to provide seamless interactions with listeners, offering valuable resources, news updates, and support for both on-air and online delivery. By combining AI with traditional broadcasting, ‘NIMI’ aims to enhance accessibility, ensuring that diverse voices are amplified and underserved communities are reached.