Callistus Chukwuma Valentine Onaga flanked by media professionals and clergy after the 60th World Communications Day Mass at Holy Ghost Cathedral, Ogui, Enugu

The Catholic Diocese of Enugu has raised concerns over the growing misuse of artificial intelligence and digital technology, warning that emerging communication systems must not be allowed to undermine human dignity, truth, and authentic relationships.

The warning was issued during the celebration of the 60th World Communications Day held at Holy Ghost Cathedral, Ogui, Enugu, under the theme, “Safeguarding Human Voices and Faces.”

Presiding over the Holy Mass, the Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Callistus Chukwuma Valentine Onaga, said media practitioners, communication scholars, and digital users require wisdom, understanding, and moral discipline to communicate responsibly in the digital age.

The bishop warned against the misuse of artificial intelligence in ways that distort truth, manipulate identities, and weaken the sanctity of human communication.

According to him, “faces and voices are sacred,” stressing that every human being is created in the image and likeness of God and that technology must not destroy the authenticity of human interaction.

Quoting the message of the Holy Father for the World Communications Day, Bishop Onaga said artificial intelligence systems now possess the ability to simulate human voices, faces, empathy, and relationships, raising serious ethical concerns for society.

In his opening remarks, the Director of Social Communications of the Diocese, Anthony Aneke, described the celebration as both historic and spiritually significant.

He stated that communication must promote truth, healing, unity, and authentic human values rather than misinformation, manipulation, and division.

Father Aneke also warned that modern digital systems risk reducing human beings to mere data profiles, insisting that defending human voices and faces amounts to defending the image of God.

The event also featured presentations on journalism ethics, parenting in the digital age, and responsible media practice. Associate Professor Chidi Ezinwa said the Church is not opposed to technology but advocates its ethical and responsible use.

He compared smartphones and digital tools to kitchen knives, explaining that technology itself is not dangerous but depends on how it is used.

Participants later engaged in discussions on media responsibility, artificial intelligence, and professional ethics, while the celebration ended with cultural performances by the Okanga Dancing Troupe of Sacred Heart Group of Schools, Uwani, Enugu.