Finance journalists in Nigeria have been urged to balance AI speed with human expertise in financial reporting analysis.
The Executive Director/Chief Rating Officer of DataPro, Mr. Oladele Adeoye, made the call at the 2026 annual training programme, held virtually for journalists.
The initiative, introduced in 2021 as part of the Datapro Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), is aimed at strengthening the capacity of journalists while also increasing public awareness of the value of the credit rating industry.
With the theme “Reporting Financial Analysis in the Age of AI,” the training underscored the need for media professionals to combine the speed of AI tools with the depth and accuracy that come from human judgment.
Mr. Oladele Adeoye, noted that while AI has enhanced the speed of reporting, “it is not a substitute for critical thinking and professional scrutiny.”
He urged journalists to verify AI-generated outputs against official filings and analyst reports, and to provide context that enables investors and the public to make informed decisions.
“Speed is valuable, but accuracy and context are more critical. Journalists must explain the ‘why’ behind the numbers and ensure that AI is used responsibly,” Adeoye said.
He further advised practitioners to disclose the use of AI tools in their reporting, noting that transparency is key to maintaining audience trust.
Adeoye emphasised that the watchdog role of the media remains vital, particularly in scrutinising corporate claims and detecting irregularities in an era where automated tools can amplify both information and misinformation.
He maintained that the future of financial reporting lies in a balanced approach, where AI enhances efficiency, while human expertise ensures credibility, accountability, and depth.