Former Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, has addressed growing concerns over Artificial Intelligence (AI) displacing millions of jobs, clarifying that AI will replace unskilled roles rather than human workers as a whole.
Speaking during an interaction with participants of the PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship in his office, Pantami emphasized the importance of skill development in the evolving job market. He highlighted that mentorship programs focused on building practical skills are key to career growth, enhancing problem-solving abilities, and expanding professional networks.
“In the coming years, millions may face job losses as AI assumes various roles,” Pantami stated. “However, it’s crucial to understand that AI itself is not directly responsible for job displacement. The real factor is individuals skilled in utilizing AI technologies. AI is a product of human ingenuity; it doesn’t function or evolve independently.”
Addressing fears about technology, commonly referred to as ‘technophobia,’ Pantami highlighted that the Fourth Industrial Revolution does not require formal degrees in technology fields for success.
“You don’t need a Mass Communication degree to become an award-winning journalist, nor do you need a degree in computer science to excel in technology,” he explained. “This revolution is about personal development and continuous learning.”
Pantami also stressed the transformative power of mentorship, encouraging young professionals to seek guidance from experienced industry experts. “Mentorship bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Education lays the foundation, but success comes from applying that knowledge in real-world scenarios,” he said.
He reiterated the importance of practical skills over academic qualifications, stating, “While tertiary education provides essential theoretical frameworks, practical skills are mostly cultivated in the private sector. I have always emphasized that practical skills—not just degrees—drive success. In today’s fast-paced environment, continuous learning and skill development are critical for staying competitive.”
Pantami urged young professionals to focus on essential skills such as empathy, emotional intelligence, communication, and digital competencies like AI and programming. “Staying updated with industry trends and technologies is vital,” he noted.
Yushau Shuaib, Chief Executive Officer of Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), commended Pantami for his insights and for accommodating the fellows on short notice. He also expressed gratitude for Pantami’s gift of his latest book, Skills Rather Than Just Degrees, to the participants.
Shuaib outlined the goals of the PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship, which aims to equip participants with modern communication techniques, emerging technologies, and multimedia skills.
“The fellowship explores strategic communication, social media engagement, and the integration of AI and machine learning to enhance communication,” Shuaib said. He added that the program, hosted at PRNigeria Centres in Abuja, Ilorin, and Kano, provides practical learning opportunities by connecting participants with industry professionals. replace unskilled workers, not humans – Pantami
Former Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, has addressed concerns about Artificial Intelligence (AI) displacing millions of jobs.
Pantami expressed his views while receiving participants in the PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship at his office.
He said mentorship programs focused on skill development enhances career growth, improves problem-solving abilities and expands professional network.
“In the coming years, millions may face job loss as AI assumes various roles,” he noted.
“However, it’s crucial to understand that it will not be AI itself causing job loss, but the individuals adept at utilizing AI technologies. AI is ultimately a product of human ingenuity; it does not operate or evolve independently.”
Speaking on the fear of technology often described as Technophobia, Pantami said one of the characteristics of the Fourth Industrial Revolution is that expertise in technology does not necessitate formal education in computer science.
“Similarly, you don’t need a degree in Mass Communication to become an award-winning journalist or an accomplished public relations professional. This revolution is centred around personal development and continuous learning,” he asserted.
The former minister stressed that mentorship can transform lives, even through brief interactions, and encouraged young citizens to seek guidance from older persons who are professionals in their respective field.
“Mentorship bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Education lays the groundwork, but applying theoretical knowledge requires hands-on experience,” Pantami noted.
The scholar further pointed out that while tertiary/university education provides the essential theoretical frameworks, practical skills are cultivated in the private sector in most cases.
“I have consistently emphasized that practical skills—not just degrees—drive success. There is a need for personal development, constant learning and retraining to stay competitive in the job market in today’s fast-paced environment.
“You need essential skills, including social abilities rooted in empathy, emotional intelligence, communication, as well as digital skills such as AI, programming and critical thinking. Staying updated with industry trends and technologies is imperative.
“I commend all of you for pursuing the PRNigeria Young Communication Mentorship Programme following your university graduation. While degrees are valuable, skills are equally important. Pursue formal education, but prioritize practical experience and continuous learning for success.”
Mr. Yushau Shuaib, Chief Executive Officer of Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), praised Pantami for accommodating the fellows on short notice and for providing copies of his latest book, “Skills Rather Than Just Degrees,” to them.
Shuaib said the PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship was designed to broaden cohort members’ knowledge across various aspects, focusing on modern communication methods, emerging technologies, and multimedia sessions.
“The fellowship explores strategic communication and social media engagement while incorporating AI and machine learning to enhance communication. Additionally, we include multimedia sessions to address the transition from print to audiovisual.”
Shuaib added that the fellowship, hosted at PRNigeria Centres in Abuja, Ilorin and Kano, provides a platform for participants to connect with industry professionals through sessions at media houses and PR departments for practical learning opportunities.
