The Catholic Church in Nigeria has concluded the 5th Nigeria Catholic Communications Week alongside the 2026 World Communication Day with a strong call for ethical journalism and protection of human dignity in the digital age.
The Chairman of the Department of Communication of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, Most Rev. Gerald Mamman Musa, urged media professionals to resist digital manipulation and prioritise truth, accountability, and human-centred communication.
Speaking in Abuja at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, Bishop Musa warned that modern communication technologies, while powerful, risk undermining the human face and voice.
He said the Church’s focus is to ensure that digital transformation does not erode human dignity.
“We must preserve the human face and the human voice,” he said, adding that communication must always reflect the image of God in every individual.
Referencing the teachings of Pope Francis, the bishop stressed that technological advancement must be guided by respect for human dignity.
He expressed concern over the influence of social media and artificial intelligence on young people, noting their growing difficulty in distinguishing truth from misinformation.
According to him, critical thinking is essential to help youths navigate an increasingly complex digital environment.
He described modern media as both beneficial and dangerous, depending on its use, warning against unethical communication practices.
Musa encouraged journalists to use their platforms to educate, inform, and promote truth, while avoiding content that fuels division or misinformation.
The Secretary-General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, Rev. Fr. Michael Banjo, said the 2026 theme underscores the importance of responsible communication in a fragile national context.
He warned that in a country facing insecurity and economic hardship, communication must not add to social tension.
Banjo urged journalists to verify facts, reject hate speech, and ensure that reporting humanises victims of violence.
He also called on citizens and political actors to reject fake news, propaganda, and electoral malpractice ahead of upcoming elections.
Outgoing communications director Rev. Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh thanked Church leadership and media partners for their support during his tenure and introduced Bishop Musa as his successor.
He urged continued collaboration between the Church and journalists to strengthen ethical communication and national unity.
