The Nigeria Institute of Social Media Analysts (NISMA) has responded to the recent statement issued by the Borno State Ministry of Information and Internal Security condemning the conduct of some youths on social media, urging the government to move beyond criticism and begin strategic investment in youth capacity development within the digital space.
In a statement issued in Maiduguri on Friday, the Borno State Coordinator of NISMA, Ms. Aeesha Mafindi, said the Ministry’s concern over the online behavior of youths was valid, but long overdue, considering that proactive efforts to address the root cause were previously ignored.
“The Nigeria Institute of Social Media Analysts, under the leadership of its President, DIG Frank Mba (rtd), had long intervened in this matter by sending proposals aimed at inducting youths in Borno State into the Institute,” she stated.
“The goal was to equip them to become professional social media analysts, thereby sensitizing the media space and providing the government an opportunity to positively engage and influence the activities of youths online.”
She revealed that despite submitting the proposals and official letters to the relevant ministry and following up consistently, the initiative was repeatedly turned down.
“It is, therefore, surprising to now hear complaints from the same ministry about the conduct of youths on social media,” Mafindi said.
She pointed out that leaders who understood the growing power of digital media had taken steps to address it, with several enrolling their media aides into the Institute for professional training.
Among those acknowledged for taking proactive steps were Governor Babagana Umara Zulum; Senator Ali Ndume, who also serves as the Grand Patron of NISMA; Senator M.T. Monguno; Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan; the Member representing Jere Federal Constituency; Chairmen of Gubio, Nganzai, and Shani LGAs; Executive Secretaries of BOGIS and BICTDA; and the Commissioners of Works and Housing, Energy, and Transport. She also commended the Executive Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, a proud indigene of Borno, and other youths who took the initiative to sponsor themselves into the Institute.
“These leaders are reaping the benefits, as their digital communication is more refined, responsible, and in tune with societal values,” she added.
Mafindi stressed the influence of social media on modern governance, citing the case of the schoolgirl bullying incident in Maiduguri, which was first exposed online, as well as the use of digital platforms by global leaders like U.S. President Joe Biden and tech mogul Elon Musk to shape public opinion and drive political narratives.
“Social media has become one of the most powerful tools in the world today. It can build or destroy governments, regardless of their strength,” she said.
“It is time we take strategic and proactive steps to harness this power responsibly and effectively. The government must invest in the digital literacy of its youth and ensure they are guided to use social media as a tool for development and positive influence.”
She also emphasized that rather than only condemning online misbehavior, the government should take responsibility by equipping youths with the skills and knowledge to engage constructively and uphold societal values in the digital space.
“Let us not take this lightly. It’s time to take strategic and proactive steps to harness the power of social media responsibly and effectively,” she said. “Empowering our youths through structured training is the only sustainable way to instill digital discipline and civic culture online.”
The Borno State Government had earlier in the week issued a statement condemning what it described as unruly and culturally offensive conduct by some youths on social media platforms, warning that those found violating public order would face legal consequences.
While reaffirming its respect for freedom of expression, the government urged citizens to maintain decorum in line with the state’s values of peace and tolerance.
However, NISMA believes that engagement, education, and empowerment must accompany enforcement if the government truly hopes to reshape the social media behavior of its young population.
