Why GOMEP-NG Wants FG to Turn WhatsApp, Facebook Into Powerful Tools for National Development

By Our Correspondent

The Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers of Nigeria (GOMEP-NG) has urged the Federal Government to harness the enormous potential of digital communication platforms, particularly WhatsApp and Facebook, as strategic instruments for national development, public engagement and effective information dissemination.
In a statement made available to journalists, the President of the Guild, Comrade Akpovoke Otiti, said the rapid growth of social media has fundamentally changed the way information is shared across the world, positioning WhatsApp and Facebook among the most influential communication channels available today.
Otiti noted that even top government officials, including ministers, frequently rely on WhatsApp platforms for emergency consultations, policy coordination and official communications. He added that several governors, commissioners and other public office holders have also embraced the platform as a critical tool for stakeholder engagement and the timely dissemination of information.
According to him, with millions of Nigerians actively participating in various WhatsApp groups to access news, exchange ideas and receive real-time updates, the significance of the platform in modern communication cannot be ignored.
He stressed that millions of citizens depend on WhatsApp and Facebook daily for news, education, business transactions, public awareness campaigns and social interaction, making them valuable channels that government institutions should leverage to strengthen communication with the public.
Otiti explained that properly managed WhatsApp groups and other digital networks could become effective platforms for public enlightenment programmes, emergency alerts, civic education, healthcare campaigns, security information and policy advocacy.
The GOMEP-NG President further called on the Federal Government to develop policies that encourage the responsible use of digital platforms while tackling misinformation and fake news through public education and awareness rather than restrictive measures.
He argued that adopting digital communication as a key governance tool would improve transparency, increase citizen participation in government activities and accelerate socio-economic development across the country.
The Guild reaffirmed its commitment to promoting ethical online journalism, responsible digital publishing and professional standards within the media industry, while pledging to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to advance digital literacy and ensure the dissemination of credible information nationwide.