Gov Namadi seeks social media monitoring to safeguard youth's moral future
From AbdulGafar Alabelewe, Kaduna Governor of Jigawa State, Umar A. Namadi, on Saturday called for proper monitoring and policy regulation of social media platforms to safeguard the moral future of
From AbdulGafar Alabelewe, Kaduna
Governor of Jigawa State, Umar A. Namadi, on Saturday called for proper monitoring and policy regulation of social media platforms to safeguard the moral future of Nigerian youths, warning that the digital revolution presents both vast opportunities and serious risks.
Speaking at the 20th Annual Ramadan Lecture jointly organised by the Nigerian Television Authority, Voice of Nigeria, and Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria in Kaduna, the governor said stakeholders must urgently address the moral implications of unchecked digital exposure among young people.
The event, held at Lumana Multi-purpose Hall, River Close, Kaduna, had as its theme: “Digital Technology and the Moral Future of the Youth.” Namadi described the lecture series as a valuable platform that has, for two decades, consistently addressed pressing moral, ethical, and social issues affecting the nation.
He commended the choice of Guest Speaker, Umaru Pate, a Professor of Media and Society, whose presentation he described as insightful and enriching, particularly for policymakers grappling with the social consequences of digital transformation.
Tracing human development from the agricultural revolution to the present digital age, powered by Information and Communication Technology, the governor noted that while technological revolutions historically spurred civilisation, the current digital wave is reshaping socio-economic structures and social norms at an unprecedented pace.
He observed that social media platforms such as Facebook and TikTok now permeate daily life, influencing youths regardless of literacy level. According to him, while smartphones can provide access to Qur’anic recitations, educational podcasts, and productive content, they also expose young users to inappropriate materials and harmful influences.
Namadi stressed that the digital era brings both opportunities for ethical guidance and risks of moral decline, making digital citizenship education and parental guidance indispensable. He argued that it may be time for Nigeria to consider structured monitoring mechanisms to protect minors from online harm.
Citing international examples, the governor noted that some advanced democracies have introduced safeguards. In France, he said, children under 15 require parental consent to join social media platforms, while debates continue in the United States over age limits and parental oversight for social media accounts.
He maintained that leaders, parents, and media practitioners share collective responsibility to guide youths towards responsible digital engagement rooted in respect, empathy, and integrity. Policies, he said, must balance innovation with moral safeguards.
Highlighting efforts in Jigawa, Namadi said his administration, through its Youth Empowerment & Employment Agency and the State ICT and Digital Economy Agency, has partnered with bodies such as the National Information Technology Development Agency to train young people in Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, and technology outsourcing.
He disclosed that an Executive Order would soon be issued to launch a Mass Mobilisation for Societal Reorientation Programme aimed at instilling discipline, patriotism, and positive values among the youth.
