The key founder of the trending fashion phenomenon “Egbaliganza” and IT expert, High Chief Lai Labode, has urged journalists to harness the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), stressing that it is not designed to replace humans but to enhance human effort.
Labode emphasized the irreplaceable role of the human factor in AI for accurate information processing, noting that AI can only work with information provided by humans.
He made this known on Saturday during a press conference at the NUJ Secretariat, held to commemorate the 2025 Press Week of the Ogun State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.
He maintained that AI would not take the jobs of journalists; rather, those who understand and embrace AI could take their place. Hence, he urged journalists to adopt the technology for innovation and improved practice.
Citing BBC Yoruba and Hausa services as examples, he encouraged media practitioners to think outside the box.
Labode, whose foundation sponsored part of the 2025 Press Week, also explained that the Lai Labode Heritage Foundation was established not only to preserve history and heritage but also to promote innovation.
“We must ask ourselves, what can we add to it, and how do we project into the future? Egbaliganza was one of those expressions we created to showcase the very best of Africa in a way that also connects to the economy of our people.
It’s not just about looking good; it’s about connecting with the local economy. And so, I want to say to the world today that Egbaland, Ogun State, and Nigeria are leading an African fashion renaissance,” he declared.
Earlier in his remarks, Chairman of Ogun NUJ, Comrade Wale Olanrewaju, highlighted the transformation the union had undergone since he assumed office.
He also expressed his readiness to achieve more while revealing plans to immortalize former chairman, High Chief Layi Labode, father of Balogun Lai Labode, for his immense contributions to the union.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the 2025 Press Week Planning Committee, Comrade Emmanuel Oke, unveiled the lineup of activities for the celebration, including outreach, press walk, journaling, chapel sessions, a variety night, and Ale Asa.
