Youth should get out of digital slavery
Sir: In an era where digital tools are utilized to create wealth, build influence, and unlock global opportunities, it is deeply concerning that many youths are instead using these same
- By Our Reporters
Sir: In an era where digital tools are utilized to create wealth, build influence, and unlock global opportunities, it is deeply concerning that many youths are instead using these same platforms to mortgage their future in the service of political loyalty. What should be a generation of innovators and entrepreneurs is gradually being reshaped into instruments of propaganda, sacrificing long-term growth for short-term recognition.
Youths are often described as the leaders of tomorrow, yet a lack of focus and failure to recognize their true potential have weakened their foresight. This has hindered their ability to make sound decisions about their future.
Advertisement
300x250
It is quite disheartening to see a graduate who studied a professional and marketable course—one that could provide a decent livelihood—reduced to a social media tool. Many are influenced by their so-called political bosses and are recruited as online agents who spread misinformation, all in the guise of political loyalty. In the process, their professional competence is eroded, and their value is diminished.
Another major challenge affecting our youths is the lack of awareness and initiative to venture into small-scale businesses. Today, the proliferation of mobile commerce (M-commerce) and social commerce (S-commerce) has made it easier than ever to start a business using just a smartphone. Instead of wasting valuable time promoting individuals who have no genuine plans for their future, youths should leverage these digital opportunities to build sustainable sources of income.
Read Also: DICON signs MOU with EIB group to improve production of Nigerian-made military technology
From experience and observation, only a few politicians genuinely empower their followers to grow and become self-reliant. Most do not invest in the long-term development of these young individuals. What’s the way forward or are we keeping our eyes off the issues?
The youths should utilize their mobile devices productively by engaging in M-commerce and S-commerce. They should acquire both hard and soft skills that can be monetized. While political association is not inherently wrong, it should be guided by a mentor-mentee relationship—not blind loyalty or online aggression.
If youths pay proper attention to these steps, they will be less vulnerable to manipulation. They will achieve better livelihoods, empower their communities with diverse skill sets, and gain the confidence to challenge the status quo. Ultimately, this will position them to contribute meaningfully to policymaking and national development- which I find more reasonable than being mere political hires by politicians.
•Ismail Bello Darazo, Bauchi State.
