No fewer than 24 members from Borno State were on Thursday inducted into the Nigeria Institute of Social Media Analysts (NISMA) at its 3rd induction ceremony held in Abuja.
The inductees were sponsored by key stakeholders, including the Distinguished Senator Representing Borno North, Sen. MT Monguno (Chief Whip), and the Distinguished Senator Representing Borno South, Sen. Mohammed Ali Ndume, who also serves as the Grand Patron of NISMA.
Others who supported the members include Hon. Satomi Ahmad FNSE, Member Representing Jere Federal Constituency; Engr. Ibrahim Abba Umar Kawu, Executive Director, Nigerian Ports Authority; Hon. Mali Bulama Mali Gubio, Chairman, Gubio Local Government Area; Hon. Adamu Yusuf Gasi, Former Chairman, Shani Local Government Area; and Hon. Engr. Muhammad Mallam Gana Badu, Chairman, Nganzai Local Government Area.
Speaking at the event themed “Navigating the Future: The Crucial Role of AI in the Virtual Society,” Sen. Ndume urged the inductees and NISMA members to use social media and artificial intelligence (AI) as tools to foster national development.
“Social media is more accessible and impactful than traditional media like radio, television, and newspapers. With the integration of AI, it has become a transformative tool for empowering youths, enhancing productivity, and fostering innovation,” Ndume said.
He further noted that AI and social media, when properly utilized, could significantly address societal challenges and foster national cohesion.
“AI is not just a tool but a catalyst for transformation in industries and communication. As social media analysts, you have a responsibility to harness its potential to shape policies, improve governance, and promote national unity,” he added.
Also speaking, Dr. Emmanuel C.S. Ojukwu, Provost of the Nigeria Police School of Public Relations, described the induction ceremony as a milestone in promoting ethical social media practices.
He highlighted the critical role of AI in analyzing societal behaviors and data to inform decision-making processes.
“AI is a reality that amplifies the role of social media analysts in driving public policy, corporate strategy, and cultural evolution. However, this power must be exercised responsibly, with adherence to ethical standards and data privacy,” Ojukwu said.
Addressing the inductees, Ojukwu charged them to uphold professionalism, innovation, and integrity in their work, emphasizing their role as key drivers of national progress in the digital era.
The event also provided a platform for discussions on the growing importance of AI and digital tools in Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
The induction ceremony reinforced NISMA’s commitment to equipping professionals with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate the rapidly evolving virtual society.