The Catholic Bishop of Oyo Diocese, Emmanuel Badejo, has called on Nigerians to preserve human interaction and resist the growing “artificialisation of communication” driven by digital media and artificial intelligence.
Badejo made the remarks during the 2026 World Communications Day held in Ibadan on Sunday.
The event focused on the message of Pope Leo XIV, themed “Preserving Human Voices and Faces.”
The bishop said the theme highlighted concerns about the diminishing role of genuine human communication in contemporary society.
According to him, artificial intelligence and digital technology increasingly threaten authentic human relationships by replacing direct personal interaction.
“Authentic communication must promote communion with God and our fellow men and women,” Badejo stated.
He warned that harmful communication could instead create division, conflict and emotional stress within society.
The cleric described human faces and voices as sacred, noting that they reflect the individuality and dignity bestowed on people by God.
He added that the uniqueness of human interaction, which has sustained relationships for generations, was now being challenged by excessive reliance on technology.
Badejo further cautioned against the decline of critical thinking and social cohesion caused by overdependence on artificial intelligence and digital devices.
He said society must avoid treating technology as an all-knowing substitute for genuine human relationships.
The bishop also encouraged people to spend more time interacting with fellow human beings rather than remaining constantly attached to digital gadgets.
He stressed the importance of prayer and personal spiritual connection, saying communication with God should never be outsourced to machines.
Badejo praised the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria for organising programmes aimed at promoting a healthy balance between faith, humanity and digital communication.
He concluded by calling for greater media literacy and public education to help people engage responsibly with technology while preserving human values and relationships.
