The Kaduna State Government has expressed support for measures aimed at strengthening oversight of social media platforms, citing growing concerns over the role of online misinformation and disinformation in fuelling conflicts and undermining peacebuilding efforts.

The state Commissioner for Information and Culture, Ahmed Maiyaki, stated this in Kaduna at the close-out and learning event of the Delimi PROSPER Project.

Mr Maiyaki spoke against the backdrop of findings presented at the event, which identified digital platforms as a major factor contributing to the escalation of conflicts in parts of Northern Nigeria.

According to him, the report provides valuable evidence on emerging challenges confronting peacebuilding initiatives and highlights the need for stakeholders to pay greater attention to activities in the digital space.

He noted that while social media has enhanced access to information and strengthened citizen participation in governance, it has also created opportunities for the spread of false and misleading content capable of inciting tensions within communities.

The commissioner said the government remained committed to collaborating with media organisations, youth groups and development partners to promote responsible information sharing and counter harmful narratives.

He stressed the need for ensuring that information circulated online was accurate and did not contribute to misinformation, disinformation or the escalation of conflicts.

Mr Maiyaki warned against the activities of individuals who exploit digital platforms to spread divisive messages and create hostility among citizens.

Speaking on the debate over social media regulation, he said oversight of digital platforms was consistent with practices in many democratic societies across the world.

Earlier, the Executive Director of Engaging Borders Strategic Development and Research (SRD), Richard Ali, said findings from the Delimi PROSPER Project showed that digital platforms had become a significant arena influencing conflict dynamics.

Mr Ali observed that online spaces now play a central role in shaping narratives, mobilising groups and amplifying tensions, making them critical to peace and security discussions.

He emphasised the importance of engaging young people in peacebuilding efforts, noting that they remain key actors in both conflict prevention and community resilience initiatives.

According to him, the project recommended stronger partnerships among governments, civil society organisations and development agencies to address harmful online narratives and promote peaceful coexistence.

The Delimi PROSPER Project was implemented by Engaging Borders SRD with support from the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRING) Programme and funding from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

The project, which ran between August 2025 and March 2026 in Kaduna and Plateau states, focused on youth-led peacebuilding, climate resilience and digital advocacy.

Participants at the event underscored the need for coordinated efforts to maximise the benefits of digital platforms while curbing the spread of content capable of threatening peace and social stability.

 (NAN)