Bodex Social Media Hangout 2024 highlights social media’s transformative power and challenges, fostering collaboration and digital growth
[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he fifth edition of the Bodex Social Media Hangout (BSMH) took centre stage, spotlighting social media’s transformative power in shaping narratives, fostering collaboration, and tackling societal issues.
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With the theme “Social Media: The Influence, Power, and Impact,” the event drew a distinguished audience, including dignitaries, influencers, and stakeholders across diverse sectors.
Moderated by the visionary Bodex Florence Hungbo, the hangout provided a platform for in-depth discussions about leveraging digital tools for societal growth while addressing challenges such as fake news, cyberbullying, and mental health issues.
Dr. OreOluwa Finnih, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on SDGs, represented the Lagos State Governor and delivered the keynote address, reaffirming the government’s commitment to a positive digital ecosystem.
The event aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 3), promoting responsible digital citizenship to enhance societal well-being. It also emphasised combating misinformation, as highlighted by a Guardian Nigeria survey revealing that 86% of Nigerians encounter fake news, affecting social stability.
Key speakers provided thought-provoking insights.
Dotun Babatunde discussed Artificial Intelligence’s impact on the attention economy, urging balanced engagement with AI-driven algorithms. Associate Professor Tayo Popoola dissected social media’s double-edged influence, calling for digital literacy to maximise benefits while curbing toxicity. Akin Olaniyan critiqued clout-chasing culture, advocating for ethical standards in content creation.
ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi illustrated how social media aids law enforcement, sharing cases where digital platforms facilitated crime-solving.
Panelists such as Olufemi Oguntamu, Tomiwa Talabi, Dayo Oketola, and Iyabo Ojo expanded on personal branding, content creation, and social media’s role in fostering accountability and global connections.
Hosted by Frank Edoho, the event featured workshops, live sessions, and networking opportunities, creating an interactive environment for attendees.
Dr. OreOluwa Finnih reiterated Lagos State’s vision of promoting economic growth and cultural exchange through a safe and thriving digital space.
Bodex Florence Hungbo concluded with an inspiring message: “Social media is the new oil well. Let us go fetch it.”
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The Bodex Social Media Hangout continues to lead in shaping Nigeria’s digital landscape, promoting collaboration, and advocating for responsible online engagement.
Ojelabi, the publisher of Freelanews, is an award winning and professionally trained mass communicator and a recipient of the D9112 Superstar Icon Award, who writes ruthlessly about pop culture, religion, politics and entertainment.
