Social media influencers in Plateau and Bauchi States have been called upon to use their platforms to promote peace, unity, and responsible communication. This call was made during a one-day Appreciative Inquiry and Mentorship Seminar held on September 14, 2024, at the Old Government House in Rayfield, Jos. Organized by the Plateau Peace Building Agency (PPBA) in collaboration with Search for Common Ground, the event marked the commemoration of the 2024 World Peace Day. 
The Director General of the PPBA, Dr. Julie Sanda, emphasized the influential role of social media in shaping public perceptions, urging influencers to focus on messages that foster reconciliation and societal cohesion. She noted that influencers, as key partners in peacebuilding, have the power to either inflame tensions or promote harmony through their content.
“Social media can be a powerful tool for peace if used positively,” Dr. Sanda remarked. “We are asking our youths and influencers to shift away from negative narratives that can fuel conflict, and instead, promote messages of unity and development.”
She also cautioned against the spread of fake news, urging influencers and media practitioners to fact-check their content before sharing. Dr. Sanda reiterated the PPBA’s commitment to fostering sustainable peace through research, dialogue, and partnerships with diverse stakeholders across the state.
Other speakers at the event, including Shama Balami, Project Officer at Search for Common Ground, and Godwin Okoko, Head of Programme Implementation, stressed the need for continuous training and mentorship of media influencers in conflict-sensitive reporting and peacebuilding. They highlighted how digital technologies can be leveraged to resolve conflicts and promote tolerance.
Dr. Timothy Golu, Special Adviser to the Plateau State Governor on Strategic Communication, and Hon. Nanbol Listick, Chairman of the Plateau State House of Assembly Committee on Security, commended the seminar for equipping influencers with skills to combat negative narratives. Both officials reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting peace initiatives and legislative efforts to maintain security and development.
The seminar featured several presentations on the responsible use of social media for conflict prevention, including topics like “Understanding Fake News” and “Appreciative Inquiry and Peacebuilding.” Participants were encouraged to harness their platforms to run peace campaigns, advocate for non-violence, and discourage divisive rhetoric.
As the state grapples with ongoing conflict and tensions, the seminar underscored the critical role of digital platforms in fostering dialogue and reconciliation. The event closed with an interactive session, leaving participants—bloggers, influencers, and media experts—ready to champion peace and contribute to positive societal change through their online presence.
