The Role of Social Media in Development Communication: Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract

The study investigated the role of social media in development communication: opportunitiesand
challenges. The study revealed that Nigeria’s evolving communication landscape, is driven by a
blend of traditional media and the rapid rise of social media, has significantly influenced the
country’s socio-economic development. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and
Instagram have redefined communication by facilitating public engagement, fostering
transparency, and amplifying voices of marginalized groups. This digital shift has allowed for
increased civic participation and empowered communities to mobilize on critical issues. The
#EndSARS movement, for instance, showcased how social media can bring national and global
attention to social justice causes, reflecting the transformative potential of digital platforms in
fostering democratic values and driving change. While social media provides new opportunities
for development communication, its effectiveness hinges on factors like digital literacy and
equitable access. This study thus investigates the dual role of social media in advancing
development communication in Nigeria, focusing on the challenges and opportunities it presents
in the nation’s socio-political context.