The National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Akwa Ibom State has launched a robust public sensitization campaign aimed at curbing the rising tide of misinformation and digital abuse. During a flagship event held in Uyo, the state director of the agency, Mr. Mkpoutom Mkpoutom, issued a stern warning to citizens regarding the critical need for responsibility when sharing content on social media platforms. He emphasized that while digital connectivity provides unprecedented power to the citizenry, it has concurrently opened the door to dangerous malpractice that threatens the fabric of the nation.
Mr. Mkpoutom underscored the paradoxical nature of modern social media, identifying it as a potent instrument for societal development that can—and often does—transform into a “weapon of mass deception and division” when handled recklessly. According to the director, the spread of falsehoods does not merely result in personal misunderstandings; it creates widespread panic and fosters deep-seated animosity that has already fractured numerous families and communities. The agency’s stance is clear: the unchecked flow of unverified data is a direct threat to the peace and unity of the Nigerian state.
Addressing the dangers of digital hostility, the NOA official explicitly warned against the use of social media to propagate hate speech, ethnic bigotry, and religious intolerance. He urged the public to cultivate a culture of verification, imploring social media users to cross-check information against credible, official sources before choosing to share it with their networks. By refrainment from engaging in or amplifying content that incites violence, citizens can play a vital role in curbing the destructive narratives that undermine national stability.
Beyond the warnings, the agency outlined a constructive vision for how technology should be harnessed for the greater good. Mr. Mkpoutom suggested that social media’s true potential lies in its ability to amplify Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage and serve as a tool for political transparency. He encouraged the public to transition from passive or destructive consumers of information to active participants who utilize digital platforms to hold public officials accountable and promote the collective progress of the nation.
To ensure this message reaches all segments of society, the NOA has revealed a comprehensive outreach strategy. The agency plans to extend its sensitization efforts beyond the state capital, targeting schools, places of worship, and local markets. By utilizing diverse communication channels—including targeted radio programs and decentralized town hall meetings—the NOA aims to instill a sense of digital literacy and ethical responsibility across the entire state, ensuring that the warning against misinformation is deeply ingrained in the public consciousness.
Finally, the agency addressed the pivotal role of the home front in digital safety, particularly concerning the younger generation. Mr. Mkpoutom issued a direct appeal to parents and guardians, urging them to exercise greater vigilance over their children’s online activities. By monitoring the digital footprint of minors, families can prevent the dangers of online abuse and ensure that the next generation uses digital platforms to foster unity rather than sow discord. This multi-faceted approach, the agency believes, is essential to building the society of our collective dreams.