A governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has described radio as one of the most powerful and inclusive platforms for democratic engagement, urging practitioners to harness emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) to strengthen content delivery without sacrificing creativity.
Ajadi made the remarks in Ibadan on Friday while delivering his address as Chairman of the 2026 World Radio Day celebration organised by the Oyo State Council of the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU).
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Radio and Artificial Intelligence,” Ajadi described it as timely and forward-looking, noting that AI represents one of the most transformative technological shifts in the modern world.
“Artificial Intelligence is fast becoming a defining technology across sectors globally, and Nigeria cannot afford to be left behind,” he said. “The conversation today is not whether AI will influence broadcasting, but how we will adopt it responsibly.”
Ajadi emphasised that radio remains one of the most widely consumed media platforms worldwide, citing global statistics that show its enduring relevance, especially among adults aged 25–54. He noted that radio’s accessibility makes it a unique medium capable of bridging the gap between urban and rural communities.
“Radio reaches beyond metropolitan centres into remote communities,” he stated. “Its language is understood by both literate and non-literate audiences. That makes it a truly democratic platform for discourse.”
He urged broadcasters to ensure their programming reflects the diversity of society by giving voice to people in both urban and isolated communities.
“Radio must continue to represent all segments of society, not just the privileged few,” he added.
Despite being over a century old, Ajadi noted that radio remains one of the most reliable means of information dissemination, social interaction and public education. He highlighted its portability, affordability and presence on mobile devices as key advantages.
“Radio is everywhere—even on our telephones,” he said. “It educates, informs, promotes freedom of expression and plays a critical role during emergencies and disasters. It also provides journalists with a platform to report facts and shape public discourse.”
Addressing concerns that AI could diminish human creativity in broadcasting, Ajadi dismissed fears that technology would replace the human touch in radio.
“To some, AI signals the death of human creativity. I disagree,” he said. “AI should enhance creativity, not suppress it.”
He encouraged media professionals to adopt a thoughtful and strategic approach to integrating AI into radio production, rather than resisting it outright.
According to him, when properly deployed, AI can:
– Reduce routine administrative tasks, allowing broadcasters to focus on meaningful content creation;
– Provide deeper insights into audience behaviour and preferences;
– Improve advertising strategies and revenue generation for sustainability;
– Offer personalised listener experiences;
– Amplify under-represented voices;
– Strengthen research and fact-checking processes to improve content quality.
Ajadi, however, stressed the importance of knowledge and capacity building, urging practitioners to gain a deeper understanding of AI to use it effectively.
“It is only when you understand the nitty-gritty of AI that you can adapt it meaningfully to radio production,” he said. “AI should not stop your creativity—it should enhance it.”
He concluded by reaffirming radio’s enduring role as a pillar of democratic discourse and cultural exchange, encouraging stakeholders to combine tradition with innovation to keep the medium vibrant and relevant in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
