New York Times publisher warns AI companies threaten journalism's future by using content without compensation
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
A.G. Sulzberger, the publisher of the New York Times, stated that artificial intelligence companies pose a growing threat to journalism by using publishers’ content without adequate compensation. Speaking at the 77th World News Media Congress in Marseille, France, Sulzberger highlighted that AI companies benefit from journalism while weakening news organizations. He noted that the increasing use of AI-powered chatbots and search tools reduces traffic to news websites, thereby undermining the revenue needed for original reporting. Sulzberger argued that AI firms use copyrighted content from news organizations to train their systems and generate user responses, often without permission. He expressed concern that this trend could lead to fewer journalists doing expensive, difficult original reporting. He emphasized that journalism is essential for democracy and public accountability, urging news organizations to defend their intellectual property rights and advocate for stronger legal protections. Sulzberger pointed out that while technology firms pay for engineers, data centers, and electricity, they often resist paying for the content used to train their systems, which they refer to as "data." He criticized their shifting explanations for this practice, including claims of innovation, taking only facts, and invoking "fair use" or national security. He also called on media organizations to responsibly embrace AI while maintaining editorial oversight and investing in original re
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The Federal Government has renamed the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Coastal Highway. Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced the decision, stating it recognizes President Tinubu's long-standing vision for the project, which he reportedly conceived 27 years ago as governor of Lagos State. Umahi also disclosed that President Tinubu approved a 400-kilometer extension of the Fourth Legacy Highway, increasing its length from 700 kilometers to 1,100 kilometers, and the reconstruction of sections of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. The Fourth Legacy Highway, originally planned to link Akwanga to Maiduguri, will now extend into Taraba State. Additionally, approval was given for the dualization of another 400 kilometers of the East-West Road, the completion of the Ibi Bridge in Taraba State, and the construction of the 5.76-kilometer Lao Bridge. These projects are part of the government's efforts to improve connectivity, stimulate economic activities, and modernize transport infrastructure across the country.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA has declared Nnamuka Uchenna, also known as Odogwu, and three associates, Emmanuella Chinonso Iroka, Nnamuka Ifeanyi Kingsley, and Ekechi Franklin Chijioke also known as Ekene Okwunaga, wanted. This action follows an order from the Federal High Court, Owerri, after an application by the NDLEA. The suspects are wanted in connection with a clandestine methamphetamine laboratory discovered at Isiozi in Umuaka, Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State on February 25, 2026. During the raid, NDLEA operatives recovered 18.4 kilograms of methamphetamine. Forensic investigations have led to the freezing of bank accounts linked to the suspects, totaling N9,840,873,566.66. The NDLEA has also secured interim forfeiture orders for assets allegedly connected to the syndicate, including a filling station, multi-storey residential buildings, and four Sport Utility Vehicles. The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, retired Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa, stated that this operation demonstrates the agency's commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks and targeting their financial structures. He assured Nigerians that the agency would continue to use financial and forensic intelligence to track down the suspects and anyone linked to the syndicate, and appealed to the public for information on their whereabouts.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the two-time NBA Most Valuable Player, arrived in Miami to join the NBA’s Heat, citing Lionel Messi as an inspiration. Antetokounmpo, who led the Milwaukee Bucks to the 2021 title, views Messi, alongside LeBron James, as a blueprint for sporting greatness. He emphasized the discipline and dedication required to follow such a path. Antetokounmpo watched Messi and Argentina secure their place in the World Cup final with a victory over England before heading to Miami for his introduction as the Heat’s newest star following his trade from the Bucks. He reflected on Messi's career trajectory, from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain and then to Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami in 2023, noting that Messi, at 39, is on the verge of a second consecutive World Cup crown. Antetokounmpo praised Messi as potentially one of the best athletes of all time, highlighting his numerous titles and MVP awards. He expressed inspiration from Messi's achievements, particularly observing how Messi's teammates rallied to support him during a game, underscoring the respect Messi has earned.