Stakeholders from government, the media, security agencies and the private sector have called on bloggers and content creators to play a leading role in reshaping Plateau State’s image through responsible digital storytelling.
The call came during the 2026 World Social Media Day celebration organised by the Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA) in Jos, where the association also unveiled its Unified Bloggers Online Platform, an initiative aimed at strengthening credible journalism and fostering collaboration among online publishers.
Held under the theme, “Digital Voices: Innovation, Creativity and Youth Engagement,”the event brought together government officials, media professionals, development partners, students, entrepreneurs, digital creators and social media enthusiasts. Discussions focused on the growing influence of digital platforms in governance, economic development, innovation, peacebuilding and youth engagement.
Speaking at the event, PLABOMA Chairman, Matthew Oyerinde Tegha, described social media as one of the greatest drivers of innovation and economic growth in the digital age. According to him, digital platforms have evolved beyond communication tools into powerful engines for entrepreneurship, wealth creation, civic participation and investment promotion.
He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to building a stronger digital media ecosystem anchored on professionalism, collaboration and credible journalism.
“Today also marks an important milestone in our collective journey. It is my honour to formally announce the unveiling of the Unified Bloggers Online Platform for Plateau State.
“This platform will showcase the collective efforts of bloggers and their professionalism in churning out verified and credible stories from Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
“It will also serve as a directory for registered and accredited bloggers on the Plateau. Together, we can build a digital ecosystem that reflects excellence, credibility, innovation and responsible engagement.” He stated.
Tegha explained that the platform is expected to connect more than 30 active bloggers across the state, increase the visibility of credible online publishers and encourage greater collaboration within the digital media space.
He also lamented that Plateau is too often defined by reports of insecurity, despite its rich tourism potential, cultural diversity, peaceful communities and expanding investment opportunities.
“The story of Plateau goes far beyond recurring reports of insecurity. Our state is blessed with breathtaking landscapes, thriving tourism destinations, rich cultural heritage, resilient communities, growing infrastructure, entrepreneurial talent, technological innovation and countless success stories that deserve national and global attention.
“I therefore call on the state government, peace builders, entrepreneurs and business owners to leverage bloggers and content creators who have amassed massive followings to ensure these positive narratives receive the visibility they deserve.” He added.
Delivering the keynote address, the Plateau State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mrs. Kaneng Pam Hworo, urged young people to become responsible digital citizens by using social media to promote truth, innovation and nation-building rather than misinformation and harmful content.She noted that digital platforms now wield enormous influence in shaping public opinion, mobilising communities and driving national development.
“Every post, video, podcast or livestream carries the potential to make a positive impact. Every smartphone has become a powerful platform, while every content creator has the capacity to serve as an agent of positive change. Let us use our digital voices to inspire hope, promote creativity and contribute meaningfully to the growth of our communities and our nation.”
Also speaking, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Dr. Gyang Bere, called on bloggers and online publishers to uphold responsible journalism by ensuring that the information they share is factual, balanced and promotes peace and social cohesion.
“Citizen journalism comes with enormous responsibility. Bloggers and content creators must use their platforms to promote peace, unity and responsible journalism while protecting national security through verified information. Plateau has many positive stories, including its resilient people, development strides and tourism potential, which deserve greater visibility.”he said.
Bere reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to working closely with media organisations and digital content creators to advance development communication and responsible information management.
The Chairman of the Plateau State Internal Revenue Service (PSIRS), Dr. Jim Pam Wayas, encouraged young people to tap into the economic opportunities available in content creation. He noted that impactful storytelling can be monetised, creating sustainable livelihoods while projecting Plateau State and Nigeria in a positive light.
PLABOMA Board of Trustees member, Mr. Yakubu Taddy, cautioned bloggers and other social media users against irresponsible online behaviour, reminding participants that digital footprints often have lasting consequences.
He urged practitioners to verify information before publication and strengthen collaboration in the fight against fake news and misinformation.
Representing the Director-General of the Plateau State Peacebuilding Agency, Dr. Julie Sanda, Mr. Kenneth Dakop commended PLABOMA for promoting peace through responsible digital engagement, describing the association as a strategic partner in strengthening social cohesion across the state.
Similarly, representing the Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, Maj. Gen. E. F. Oyinlola, Capt. C. P. Oteh appealed to bloggers and content creators to support security efforts by publishing verified information capable of fostering peace, unity and mutual understanding.
PLABOMA Secretary, Mr. Ibrahim Kallamu, described social media as a powerful tool for communication, education, business and civic engagement, urging participants to use digital platforms responsibly to create opportunities and drive innovation.
Popular content creator and comedian, Sunday Agbaji, better known as Hilarious Sunnie, shared his journey in content creation, encouraging young people to embrace originality, consistency and creativity. He stressed that quality digital content can educate, entertain and generate sustainable income.
One of the major highlights of the event was the official unveiling of PLABOMA’s Unified Bloggers Online Platform, which stakeholders described as a landmark initiative expected to strengthen collaboration among online publishers while enhancing the visibility of credible digital journalism in Plateau State.
The celebration also featured the presentation of awards to individuals and organisations recognised for their contributions to digital communication, innovation and community development. Honourees included PLASMIDA, PLASCHEMA, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Council, Mrs. Ayuku Pwaspo, the Plateau State Ministry of Information, Youth Engagement and Impact, Media Icon, and Godwin Okoko.
Participants described the event as a significant step toward building a stronger and more vibrant digital media ecosystem in Plateau State.
They expressed optimism that closer collaboration among bloggers, government institutions and development partners would promote responsible journalism, attract investment and help project a more balanced and positive image of the state.
