Legit.ng, Nigeria’s leading digital media platform, has been named the winner of the Best Use of AI in the Newsroom at the 2025 Digital Media Awards Africa, hosted by the World Association of News Publishers (WAN-IFRA). This recognition highlights Legit.ng’s innovative and impactful application of artificial intelligence to drive inclusive journalism.
The award-winning initiative, titled “Hausa AI News: Amplifying Indigenous Voices with Technology,” addresses a critical gap in Nigerian media—the limited availability of news content in indigenous languages. By harnessing the power of AI, Legit.ng is not only streamlining content production but also empowering Hausa-speaking audiences with timely, culturally relevant news in their native language.
Revolutionizing Access Through AI
Launched in June 2024, the project utilizes AI-driven translation, automated fact-checking, and editorial oversight to produce high-quality Hausa-language news with greater speed and accuracy. The result: article production time halved and a significant increase in content volume and audience engagement.
“This initiative goes beyond automation—it’s about accessibility, identity, and respect for cultural heritage,” said Rahaman Abiola, Editor-in-Chief of Legit.ng. “AI has the potential to be a force for inclusion, and this award affirms our commitment to journalism that speaks to every Nigerian, in every language.”
Ethical Innovation at the Core
WAN-IFRA commended Legit.ng for its human-centric approach to AI, noting the project’s emphasis on enhancing—not replacing—journalistic value. From countering misinformation to delivering nuanced translations, the initiative demonstrates how AI can be responsibly integrated into newsroom operations.
“Legit.ng’s work stands out for its quality, creativity, and social impact,” said Rocío Valderrábano, WAN-IFRA’s Digital Revenue Network Project Manager. “This achievement is well deserved, and we’re excited to see what comes next.”
A Milestone for Indigenous Language Media
Within a month of launch, the project saw a 6% increase in Hausa content, an 18% rise in page views, and a 55% boost in reader engagement, proving strong demand for localized, trustworthy news.
“At Legit.ng, we view AI not as a threat but as a bridge,” said Felix Imoh, Public Relations Manager. “This milestone encourages us to keep pushing boundaries and serve communities that have long been overlooked.”
As Legit.ng celebrates this industry-leading recognition, it continues to lead the charge in ethical, inclusive, and technologically empowered journalism—shaping a future where every voice is heard.
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