Nigerian Senator, Ali Ndume has said that social media is pivotal to the productivity of youth in the country.
He also said the Nigerian Institute of Social Media Analysts (NISMA) is placed with the responsibility of improving news dissemination that will aid the growth of the country.
“Social media helps the youth to be less dependent, more futuristic”, Ndume said at the 3rd Induction Ceremony, organised by the institute on Thursday 05th November, 2024, in Abuja, the Nigerian capital.
“Social media has a higher reach than conventional media such as radio, television and print”, he said.
The Borno State born Senator was also conferred with the position of a Grand Patron of the institute.
Themed “Navigating the Future: The Crucial Role of AI in the Virtual Society’, he said the induction is not just timely but, transformative.
Mr. Ndume also stated that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not only a tool but, an architect of transformation from personalized content delivery and predictive analysis to sentiment analysis and automation of interaction.
“The positive drive of AI will make the youth productive and contribute their quota in building the country”, he said.
“AI is influencing industries, redefining communication’s, challenging social norms. In the realm of social media.
“For us in Nigeria where social media is catalysts for communication and advocacy, you are expected to harness AI to drive engagement, innovation and social needs”, the Senator added.
Provost of the Nigerian Police School of Public Relations, Dr. Emmanuel CS Ojukwu, said artificial intelligence is rapidly evolving digital intelligence, adding that AI is no longer a distant concept confined to sci-fi novels; “it is a reality, a tool and, indeed, a partner in how we analyze, create, and interact within the virtual world”.
Ojukwu also said the role of social media analysts is more significant than ever and every click, post and interaction generates valuable data that reflects societal behaviors, preferences and aspirations. He encouraged the inductees to be touch bearers of the institute.
“As you take your your place in this distinguished body, you are not only becoming part of a professional network, you are also committing to excellence, innovation and integrity in this digital age.
“You are the analyst, strategist and pioneers who will navigate the uncharted territories of AI in our virtual society”, he enumerated.