The Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Malam Ali Muhammad Ali, has urged young people to use digital media responsibly and avoid spreading misinformation, cyberbullying and harmful online content.
Ali gave the advice at the Vision 2035 AI-Athon 2.0 Digital LeadHERship Workshop and Speech Contest organised by the Young Communicators Initiative in Abuja on Thursday. The event was held to mark the International Day of the Girl-Child under the theme, “Building LeadHERS of Today for Leadership of Tomorrow.”
Represented by NAN’s Director of Special Duties, Ismail Abdulaziz, the managing director said young people were growing up in an environment shaped by constant connectivity, digital algorithms and rapid advances in artificial intelligence.
He warned that social media and other digital platforms could be misused to spread false information, damage reputations and promote toxic narratives, particularly with the growing availability of generative AI tools and deepfake technology.
Ali encouraged the participants to verify information before sharing it, exercise critical thinking and show empathy in their online interactions.
He stressed that responsible digital engagement required users to prioritise accuracy over speed and consider the possible consequences of their online activities.
Also speaking, British Council Director of Programmes, Chikodi Onyemerela, encouraged girls to pursue ambitious educational and career goals without allowing gender stereotypes to restrict their aspirations.
Onyemerela urged participants to assess their progress regularly, identify areas for improvement and take advantage of opportunities to develop their skills.
He maintained that women could contribute to leadership across different sectors and encouraged the girls to remain focused on personal development.
Earlier, the founder of the Young Communicators Initiative, Priscilla Anaemena, said the Vision 2035 programme was established to help girls recognise their role in Nigeria’s development.
She described artificial intelligence as a present-day reality and urged participants to explore how technology could help them address challenges in their communities.
Anaemena said the initiative would encourage the girls to develop community-based projects using AI and defend their ideas through public speaking.
Mary-Alicia Okegbe, a senior prefect at Bankys Private School, called on the government to introduce policies that would empower girls, encourage self-expression and provide platforms for them to contribute meaningfully to society.
She said young girls needed opportunities to speak confidently, showcase their abilities and participate in decisions affecting their future.
