Ibadan is set to host a major training event on October 11, 2025 aimed at equipping young civic leaders with skills in using artificial intelligence to strengthen democracy. Applications are now open for the Artificial Intelligence Fundamentals Workshop, hosted by Digital Democracy Lab in partnership with Fact Check Africa and supported by the Nigeria Youth Future Fund.
This one-day intensive program is designed for journalists, campus journalists, civil society activists, technology enthusiasts, and researchers. Organizers said the training will focus on fact-checking, accountability, and the use of AI-powered tools to counter misinformation and increase citizen participation.
Nigeria, like many countries, faces the growing challenge of misinformation and disinformation spread online. Experts warn that unchecked false narratives can undermine public trust in institutions and distort the democratic process. Artificial intelligence is emerging as a powerful tool to tackle this issue, and the upcoming workshop is positioned as a platform for citizen activists to gain practical skills to apply the technology.
Participants will showcase a variety of AI applications, from automated verification systems to platforms that help monitor online conversations for signs of organized disinformation campaigns. Organizers stress that the workshop is not limited to those with a technical background. Instead, it is aimed at individuals who are motivated to understand how technology can be used to improve governance and strengthen transparency in society.
Speaking ahead of the event, representatives from Digital Democracy Lab explained that the training will go beyond classroom instruction. Sessions will include co-creation activities where participants will work in teams to design practical toolkits that address Nigeria’s urban landscape. These toolkits will focus on transparency, accountability, and ethical use of AI.
In addition to technical knowledge, the program is also expected to provide significant networking opportunities. Participants will automatically join the Youth AI Network, a community of young professionals and activists dedicated to advancing democratic values through technology. Organizers believe this community will serve as a platform for peer learning, collaboration, and long-term mentoring. Participants will also be issued a certificate of participation supporting their professional and academic profile.
Our analysts note that interest in this training is expected to be high, given the relevance of artificial intelligence to current global discussions. From innovation in newsrooms to fighting election misinformation, AI tools are increasingly impacting the way society processes and trusts information. Nigeria’s vibrant youth population is seen as having a key role to play in meeting these challenges, and this workshop is designed as part of a broader movement to equip youth with skills for the future.
Applications for the workshop are now open and can be submitted using the registration link provided by the organizers. Successful applicants will be contacted with details of the venue in Ibadan. Due to limited space available, interested parties are encouraged to register as soon as possible at: tinyurl.com/IbadanAIworkshop.
backstage
The Ibadan workshop will be the latest in a series of initiatives exploring how technology can support democratic resilience. Previous programs run by the Digital Democracy Lab have focused on media literacy, fact-checking, and digital rights. The AI Fundamentals Workshop goes a step further by directly engaging participants in the use of artificial intelligence tools that can make accountability work more effective.
