Osinbajo, Shittu to chair discussion on use of social media in Nigeria

By: Sandra Nnaemeka

Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; Communications Minister, Adebayo Shittu and over 1000 stakeholders will tomorrow discuss the outlook of social media in Nigeria, particularly its risks and gains.

The discussion would specifically focus on the importance of social media, provide an opportunity for fresh inputs and feedback from stakeholders as well as create awareness on the opportunities and risks associated with the use of social media, Special Assistant (New Media), to the Minister of Communications, Oluwakemi Ann-Melody Areola said in Abuja on Sunday.

She said the growing concern and skeptism regarding the use of social media in the public sector due to the weaponisation of fake news and hate speech would be discussed at the meeting.

Areola disclosed that the retreat would enable stakeholders share knowledge and information as well as review good practice on policies and programme and promotion of social media for good governance.

According to her, the Federal Ministry of Communications is expecting over 1000 participants at the National Social Media Retreat, which would focus on use of social media for good governance.

She said the event, which is expected to hold from tomorrow at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja, would bring together all Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and the private sector as part of efforts to achieve the current government’s agenda on improving service delivery to the citizenry.

Stating that social media has increased openness, participation and sharing, Areola said the development has been rapidly adopted by citizens, adding, “the innovative use of technology allows social media to be a means of effective communication by harnessing the features of speed, propriety, transparency, accountability and mass participation in governance.

“The National Social Media Retreat would shed more light on the opportunities, risks, understanding ways to educate government and government workers on the proper use of social media.”

Source: TechEconomy.ng