The Nigerian Institute of Social Media Analysts (NISMA) has identified the digital space as a new frontline in Nigeria’s efforts to combat fake news, hate speech and other threats to national peace ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The institute made the declaration on Thursday while unveiling the National Digital Peace Ambassadors (NDPA), a movement designed to promote responsible social media use and strengthen national cohesion. Speaking at a news conference themed “Digital Peace and National Security: Building Responsible Voices for a United Nigeria,” NISMA urged Nigerians to take responsibility for the information they create, share and amplify online.
NDPA National Secretary, Erikan Obong, said social media had become a major platform for shaping opinions, influencing public discourse and engaging in political debates. She expressed concern over the growing use of artificial intelligence to create and manipulate content, warning that misinformation, disinformation and hate speech could threaten social cohesion and stability.
NISMA National Coordinator, Dr Christian Eze, said the institute was proposing mandatory certification for Nigerians before they could open social media accounts as part of efforts to promote responsible digital communication.
Meanwhile, NDPA said its campaign is open to all Nigerians and will encourage users to verify information before sharing it and prioritise national interest as the country approaches the 2027 elections.
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