The National President of the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU), Emeka Kalu, has dismissed concerns that Artificial Intelligence (AI) poses a threat to media and cultural workers, describing the technology as a tool for improving productivity and efficiency.

Kalu stated this while speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva, Switzerland, on Tuesday.

According to him, workers in the media and cultural sectors have consistently adapted to technological advancements and are well-positioned to maximise the opportunities presented by AI.

“AI does not pose a threat because human beings remain the driving force behind whatever happens with the technology. We will continue to train our members and ensure they remain ahead of emerging developments,” he said.

The union leader noted that discussions at the conference had provided valuable insights into key labour issues, including decent work, technological transformation, collective bargaining and workers’ rights.

He said the deliberations reinforced the importance of collective bargaining and the right of workers to organise and belong to trade unions.

Kalu explained that workers in the broadcasting and creative industries had long embraced technological innovation and were prepared to take advantage of AI-driven opportunities.

According to him, broadcasters adopted digital technology ahead of many other sectors and have continued to upgrade their skills and tools to meet evolving industry demands.

“We were already digitised before many sectors began embracing digital transformation. We do not wait for government before training our members,” he said.

He added that RATTAWU had prioritised strategic partnerships and continuous capacity development to ensure its members remained competitive in a rapidly changing work environment.

Kalu described AI as a supportive tool that would simplify work processes rather than replace workers, provided users acquire the skills needed to use it effectively.

“AI is not a threat to any RATTAWU member. We understand it, embrace it and advocate for its use because it supports our work and makes tasks easier,” he said.

On workers’ welfare, the RATTAWU president reaffirmed the union’s commitment to securing improved remuneration and better working conditions for media and cultural workers nationwide.

He expressed optimism that the proposed special salary structure and welfare package for workers in the sector would soon receive government approval.

Kalu said the Minister of Information and National Orientation had publicly acknowledged ongoing efforts to improve welfare packages for media and cultural workers.

“The minister has indicated that a package for RATTAWU members is awaiting official pronouncement. We remain committed to pursuing its implementation,” he said.

He further disclosed that housing schemes and other welfare initiatives formed part of his administration’s agenda aimed at improving the wellbeing of union members across the country.

According to him, his leadership came into office with a 12-point agenda focused on protecting the professional and economic interests of media and cultural workers.

“I came prepared to defend and protect the legitimate professional rights of our members. Housing for RATTAWU members is one of the initiatives already being pursued,” he said.

Kalu emphasised the importance of labour leaders participating in the International Labour Conference, noting that the event provides an opportunity to understand global labour policies and emerging workplace trends.

He added that knowledge gained from the conference would strengthen labour advocacy efforts and enhance engagement between unions, employers and governments.

“We have gained practical insights from this conference that will be beneficial to our members and strengthen our advocacy efforts going forward,” he said.