The Federal Government has faced criticism online over a video featuring an apparently artificial intelligence-generated conversation about Nigeria’s oil industry and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.).

The video, which circulated on X, formerly Twitter, prompted questions from viewers about why AI was being used to present a question-and-answer session on issues surrounding the country’s oil sector.

Some users questioned whether the exchange represented genuine public engagement, arguing that Nigerians needed direct answers to their concerns rather than a conversation whose authenticity was uncertain.

The controversy has renewed discussions about how the government communicates with citizens on sensitive issues, particularly the management of the country’s petroleum resources and the activities of its national oil company.

For many Nigerians, public communication about the oil industry must go beyond presenting information. Citizens also expect transparency, reliable explanations and opportunities to scrutinise claims about the sector.

Although artificial intelligence can help simplify complex information and support content production, its use in official communication may generate distrust when audiences cannot establish whether the people or conversations presented are genuine.

The incident has therefore drawn attention to the need for government institutions to make the source and nature of their communications clear, especially when addressing matters of significant public interest.

However, the purpose of the video and the circumstances surrounding its creation remain unverified. It is unclear whether the content was designed to address public concerns, promote a particular message or serve another objective.

Despite the uncertainty, the online reactions reflect public expectations that the government should respond to questions about the oil sector with clear, credible and verifiable information.