The Catholic Bishop of Ilorin Diocese, Most Rev. Anselm Pendo Lawani, has cautioned against the unchecked use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), warning that while technology is useful, it must never replace the human person or diminish human dignity.
Speaking on Sunday at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cathedral, Taiwo Road, Ilorin, during the 2026 World Communications Day celebration, Bishop Lawani said communicators in the Church remain part of Christ’s mission to spread the Good News, describing Christ as the “Supreme Communicator” who entrusted believers with the duty of authentic communication.
He noted that this year’s theme, “Safeguarding the Future, Defending the Human Person, Making Artificial Intelligence (AI) a Positive Tool,” also aligned with the message of Pope Leo XIV, which emphasizes “preserving human voices and faces” in a rapidly digitalising world.
“We are communicators by vocation, following Christ who Himself is the Supreme Communicator. He commissioned us to continue the work of preaching the Good News to all,” the bishop said.
Bishop Lawani explained that technological advancement has always been part of human progress, from the industrial revolution to modern computing, telecommunications, robotics, and now Artificial Intelligence, but stressed that none of these innovations should replace the dignity of the human person.
“Every invention in history has been meant to serve humanity, not to replace it. Technology should make life better, not erase our humanity,” he stated.
Reflecting on concerns raised by Pope Leo XIV, the bishop warned that AI must not be allowed to reduce human communication to mere algorithms, stressing that human faces and voices are sacred gifts from God.
He said, “The Holy Father reminds us that the human face and voice are sacred. We are created in the image and likeness of God. Preserving human faces and voices means safeguarding the reflection of God’s love in every person.”
According to him, humanity is not a collection of data or biological codes that can be replaced by machines, insisting that each person has a unique calling that cannot be replicated by technology.
“We are not a species made up of predefined biochemical algorithms. Every person has an irreplaceable vocation expressed through communication and relationships,” he added.
The cleric also expressed concern over the growing impact of AI on journalism and public communication, warning that algorithm-driven content can encourage misinformation, cyber fraud, online bullying, and invasion of privacy.
He noted that digital systems, if not properly guided, can promote superficial engagement and deepen social polarization.
“This digital revolution poses serious challenges to journalism. Algorithms can distort reality, spread falsehood, and violate people’s privacy without consent,” he warned.
Bishop Lawani called for urgent investment in digital literacy, ethical education, and critical thinking skills for media professionals and citizens, saying such measures would help people understand how online systems shape perception and influence public opinion.
“There is need for conscious digital citizenship and proper regulation that respects human dignity. We must understand how these systems work and ensure they serve the common good,” he said.
Quoting Pope Leo XIV, he warned against blind dependence on AI, describing the idea of an “omniscient digital friend” as misleading.
“Do not give up your own thinking. Only God is all-knowing. Artificial intelligence must remain a tool, not a replacement for human judgment,” he said.
The bishop further stressed that over-reliance on AI could weaken human creativity and responsibility, noting that people who seek knowledge without personal effort risk “silencing their own voice and hiding their own face.”
He called for responsibility at all levels, cooperation across sectors, and education that strengthens critical evaluation of information sources, especially in the digital age.
Bishop Lawani summed up the Church’s position by urging society to guide technological innovation rather than fear it.
“The challenge before us is not to stop digital innovation, but to guide it wisely, knowing its risks and benefits. We must raise our voices in defence of human beings so that these tools become our allies, not our replacements,” he said.
He concluded by urging Christians and media practitioners to prioritize face-to-face communication, human relationships, and truth-driven reporting over artificial or manipulated digital realities.
“Real communication requires the presence of the human voice and face. Technology must serve humanity, not replace it,” he added.
The bishop appreciated participants for attending the celebration and wished them safe return to their various parishes and homes.
(Board Room)
