Leveraging on the Gains of the Uyo Social Media Week
Priscilla Akpanettot
A few days ago, precisely the 19th-21st of November, 2025, the Uyo Social Media Week debuted in Uyo, the capital city of Akwa Ibom State. A novel product of the Conference of Online Publishers in Akwa Ibom (COOPA), it heralded the break of a new dawn in learnings about the social media for those resident in the State, so much that the takeaways from it will linger in the minds of participants for a very long time.
The event practically demonstrated the power of digital innovation in driving economic growth, community development, and individual empowerment as its theme was: “Amplifying Local Voices through Digital Innovation.” It provided a platform for digital professionals, creators, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to share knowledge, network, and spark meaningful conversations around the role of digital media in community growth and national development; and attracted leading voices in digital communication, governance, entrepreneurship, and media innovation.
The week-long gathering featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, exhibitions, and networking sessions, providing participants with intensive training in digital content creation, social media monetization, and digital marketing.
On the first day, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information, Rt Hon. Aniekan Umanah’s session on “Digital Media and Governance: Bridging the Gap” addressed the issue of use and misuse of the digital space. He noted that the digital space has become the heartbeat of modern governance, adding that social media today promotes transparency, strengthens accountability, and connects citizens directly to government policies and development initiatives.
He cited the State Government’s digitization of governance processes, including the ongoing CBT-based civil service recruitment as a demonstration of how digital initiatives can document progress in real-time and deepen citizen participation in governance. As such, the Commissioner encouraged young people to maximize digital opportunities, describing them as “digital entrepreneurs” who can earn significantly when the platforms are used productively.
The keynote was closely followed by an engaging Panel Session with ace media icons: Richard Okon, Mazi Endurance Onun and Ekemini Simon who posited that bridging the gap requires the government to move from using the digital media as means of communication to conversation.
Simon who averred that the government has often treated digital media as a Public Relations tool; always wanting people to see them in good light rather than a governance tool which will be wanting to solve real problems; recommended the initiation of X Space conversations per MDA, allowing citizens to discuss some issues of concern and the government offering insight into what they are actually doing, their plans and also take home some innovative ideas that would be proffered. This, he said, would create a feedback mechanism and make the communication flow both ways.
He also opined that digital governance have been too centralized, elite driven, and urban focused and made a case for its localisation through the embrace of tools that will help bring local language like Ibibio, Annang and Oro to the space. This, he noted, would help to carry the locals along.
Subsequently, the Group Manager, Marketing and Communications, Ibom Air, Aniekan Essienette took participants through the challenges of “Mitigating Social Media Crisis”; followed by “Regulating Digital Publishing Without Gagging Free Speech” with Barr. Ewa Okpo; and insights from DSP Timfon John, Police PRO who emphasized on bail being free.
“Bail is free, I am saying this authoritatively. If any member of the police force has taken money from you, reach out to me, and you’ll get it back. The Commissioner of Police, CP Azare, has spoken about this.”
But the hall erupted moments later when businessman and banker, Dr. Magnus Chukwuekezie sharply countered the Police PRO, insisting that the public’s perception tells a different story. Speaking on: “Building your Personal Brand,” the Regional Manager, Keystone Bank, submitted that: “Your brand isn’t what you say you are. It is what people say you are. When the Police say bail is free, it is not what they say, but what people say about it. You must be authentic. Your content must make people feel your authenticity.”
He stressed that for any brand, including the Police to grow, it must focus on helping people and answering the right questions. The exchange briefly turned the event into a debate on trust, authenticity, and public perception, leaving the audience buzzing, while the day ended with “Creating Viral and Impactful Content with QueenPraise John (Nrindioma).
Day 2 of the Uyo Social Media Week was opened by Mr. Ibanga Isine, one of Africa’s most respected, multiple award-winning journalists, who took participants through Fake News, Hate Speech and Algorithm Wars. He emphasized the need for fact-finding before a story is published and advised on the no gratification policy before publishing a report.
Mr. Cletus Ukpong, South-South Bureau Chief, Premium Times, followed with sharp lessons on Balancing Speed with Accuracy in Online News, followed closely by an exploration of strategic institutional communication with Engr. Solomon Eyo, Special Assistant to the Governor on Multimedia and Website, who unpacked “Social Media Management for Government and Organisations.”
Digital safety took centre stage with Engr. Destiny Young, Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, in a timely session on “Online Security for Journalists and Creators”, while Creatives got their spark from Faith Etuk, who delivered a lively class on “Scriptwriting for Reels, TikToks and Shorts”. The day was wrapped with the “The Social Media Rulebook: What Works, What Hurts,” delivered by Odiko Macdon, on behalf of DIG Frank Mba of NISMA
The third day was electrifying, engaging, thought-provoking, and so immersive that participants wished the event would never end. The energy was high, conversations were deep, and each session sparked new ideas that kept the room yearning for more.
Leo Leo Umana opened hearts with ‘From DMs to “I Do”, exploring how digital spaces shape modern relationships. Tony Onuk inspired creators and founders with fresh “Opportunities in Tech for Media Startups.”
Udeme Okono offered a powerful psychological lens through “Me, My Post and I-The Mind Behind the Screen.”
Ekemini Simon charted the path forward with “Data and the Future of Digital Journalism.”
Dr. Andy Eyo illuminated how digital tools can transform health access with “Leveraging Digital Media for Primary Healthcare and Community Engagement”, while Akaninyene Udom, popularly known as Oga Yenne, delivered practical wisdom on “Building and Managing an Online Community”, leaving participants charged and eager for more.
It is noteworthy that each of these sessions had a myriad of impact on every attendee. There were relatable experiences for individuals, the private sector, corporate bodies, and government. First, it showcased the potential of digital platforms in telling authentic local stories; promoting cultural identity, and driving social change.
Then, it helped participants gain valuable skills in digital marketing, community building, content creation, and social media management.
Moreover, the event availed participants opportunities to network by bringing together industry experts, thought leaders, and innovators, providing a platform for meaningful connections and potential collaborations as well as access to intellectual resources. Participants found themselves forming new friendships, reconnecting with old ones, and building networks that will outlive the week itself. The hall was alive with laughter, reunions, introductions, and the kind of synergy that only happens when passionate minds meet.
It also highlighted the importance of digital innovation in driving economic growth, community development, and individual empowerment.
For corporate bodies, the Uyo Social Media Week was an avenue for brand visibility. Companies showcased their products and services to a targeted audience, increasing brand awareness and potential customer base. It also offered an avenue for lead generation. Businesses connected with potential clients and partners, generating high-quality leads and potential sales, whilst they interacted with industry peers, thought leaders, and potential partners, fostering strategic partnerships and collaborations.
Government agencies gained insights into effective digital media strategies, informing policy decisions and initiatives. Government representatives connected with citizens, understanding their needs and concerns, and potentially improving public services, and of course, the event promoted digital innovation, supporting the government’s efforts to drive technological advancement and economic growth.
For those in the private sector, the event was an innovation showcase. Startups and entrepreneurs showcased innovative products and services, attracting potential investors and partners. It also availed them of investment opportunities as they connected with investors, exploring potential funding opportunities.
Furthermore, the Uyo Social Media Week highlighted the importance of digital innovation, encouraging private sector investment and adoption.
Although the organisers may not have envisaged these huge benefits, the Uyo Social Media Week has made a loud statement and demonstrated the potential to position Akwa Ibom as a hub for digital communication, innovation, and technology-driven development.
Days after it ended, participants are still thankful to have been part of the event, which they describe as an eye-opener, while others are asking for a second edition.
The Conference of Online Publishers should, on this note, be applauded for the initiative to bring this great learning opportunity to the doorstep of Akwa Ibom people. The event, which was staged in commemoration of COOPA’s 10-year anniversary, indicates the organization’s long-standing commitment to excellence and brilliance.
In his remarks at the opening ceremony, the Chancellor of COOPA, Mr. Utitofon Morgan celebrated the organisation’s ten-year journey, recounting its contributions to ethical digital publishing, civic awareness, and social development campaigns. He described the Social Media Week as COOPA’s gift to the public, aimed at promoting knowledge exchange and amplifying local voices through digital innovation, while calling on stakeholders, including tech firms, media organizations, NGOs, government agencies, and academic institutions, to support and partner subsequent events, having recognized its potential to drive positive change in the region.
Conclusively, the Uyo Social Media Week has set a precedent for future events, highlighting the importance of digital media in community growth and national development. Its significance in driving economic growth, community development, and individual empowerment are impacts that will resonate beyond the State, fostering a culture of digital innovation and entrepreneurship.
Priscilla Akpanettot is a journalist and the Administrative Secretary, COOPA
