By SN24.com 
By Peter Akpah.
The Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association, PLABOMA, has hosted the 2026 World Social Media Day celebration in Jos, convening stakeholders, media professionals, content creators, students and digital enthusiasts to advance innovation, creativity and responsible use of online platforms.
Held at Usiju World Event Centre under the theme _“Digital Voices: Innovation, Creativity and Youth Engagement,”_ the event provided a forum for discussions on the expanding influence of digital media and the role of young people in driving positive social change.
*Social Media as an Economic and Civic Tool*
PLABOMA Chairman, Chief Matthew Oyerinde Tegha, said social media has moved beyond communication to become a major driver of economic growth, innovation, job creation and civic participation.
He urged bloggers and content creators to reshape Plateau’s narrative by using their platforms to promote the state’s tourism, cultural heritage, entrepreneurial successes and investment opportunities, instead of amplifying negative stories.
Tegha also called on the Plateau State Government, peacebuilders, entrepreneurs and business owners to partner with digital media practitioners to project the state’s potential, noting that such collaboration would help improve perception and attract development.
*Digital Responsibility and Nation-Building*
Keynote speaker and Plateau State Director of the National Orientation Agency, NOA, Mrs. Kaneng Pam Hworo, challenged youths to use their digital voices for innovation and nation-building rather than harmful content.
“Every post, video, podcast or livestream carries the potential to make a positive impact. Every smartphone is now a powerful platform, and every content creator can be an agent of positive change,” she said, urging responsible use of digital influence to promote truth, creativity and community growth.
Director of Press and Public Affairs to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Dr. Gyang Bere, tasked bloggers with promoting peace, unity and responsible journalism. He said citizen journalism must protect national security and social cohesion, and assured of the governor’s support for media practitioners advancing credible digital communication.
PLABOMA Board of Trustees member, Mr.
Yakubu Taddy, cautioned against reckless online activity, warning that digital posts can have long-term personal and professional consequences. He called for stronger collaboration on fact-checking and urged bloggers to verify information to curb misinformation.
*Unified Bloggers Website Launched*
A major highlight was the unveiling of PLABOMA’s Unified Bloggers Website, https://plaboma.com/, a first-of-its-kind platform designed to connect over 30 active bloggers, strengthen collaboration and increase the visibility of digital journalism in the state.
Stakeholders described the website as a significant step for credible online publishing, and urged PLABOMA to leverage it to consistently promote Plateau’s tourism destinations, culture and investment climate.
PLABOMA Secretary, Mr. Ibrahim Kallamu, said social media is now central to communication, business, education and civic engagement, and encouraged participants to use it responsibly to create opportunities and drive innovation.
Content creator and comedian, Mr. Sunday Agbaji, aka _Hilarious Sunnie_, shared his journey and urged youths to embrace creativity, consistency and originality, noting that impactful content can educate, inspire and generate sustainable income.
Other speakers included PSIRS Chairman, Dr. Jim Pam Wayas, who highlighted monetization opportunities in storytelling; Mr. Kenneth Dakop of the Plateau Peacebuilding Agency, who described PLABOMA as a strategic partner for social cohesion; and Capt. CP Oteh, representing Operation Enduring Peace, who urged digital practitioners to support security efforts with verified, peace-promoting narratives.
*Awards and Recognition*
The event concluded with awards to individuals and organisations for effective social media engagement, including PLASMIDA, PLASCHEMA, NUJ Chairman Mrs. Ayuku Pwaspo, the Plateau State Ministry of Information, Youth Engagement and Impact, and Godwin Okoko.